Sachin Tendulkar, the renowned Indian cricketer, recently came across a deepfake video featuring himself endorsing an online game. Expressing his apprehension about the dissemination of false information through the manipulation of his voice, the former captain took to social media to address the issue.
Sachin Tendulkar, the former Indian cricketer, has recently exposed a viral fake video on social media where his voice was manipulated to promote an online game. In the manipulated video, Tendulkar can be seen endorsing the game by using his daughter Sara as an example, claiming she earns Rs 1.8 lakh per day through predictions in the game. Unfortunately, Tendulkar has fallen victim to identity fraud through the use of deepfake technology.
Upon discovering the clip, Tendulkar took to his social media platform to clarify that he had no involvement in the video and that it had been manipulated. Expressing his concern, the legendary cricketer highlighted the widespread misuse of technology and urged for the halt of misinformation and deepfakes. He also emphasized the importance of vigilance and caution among individuals.
A study conducted in December 2023 revealed that India is one of the Asian countries significantly affected by identity fraud through deepfake technology.
“These videos are fraudulent and fabricated. It is distressing to witness the rampant misuse of technology. I urge everyone to promptly report such videos, advertisements, and applications in large numbers. Social media platforms must remain vigilant and responsive to complaints. Swift action from their end is crucial in curbing the dissemination of misinformation and deepfakes,” Sachin stated in a social media post on X.
In his message, Tendulkar also notified the Ministry of Electronics & IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the Union Minister of State, and Maharashtra Cyber Crime.
Tendulkar has become the most recent casualty of the misuse of deepfake technology, following in the footsteps of Bollywood actor Rashmika Mandhana. The Delhi Police acted swiftly against the perpetrator who shared the fabricated video of the actor on social media.
Deepfakes, a combination of “deep learning” and “fake,” refer to highly realistic video or audio recordings created using artificial intelligence. These manipulated media can portray individuals saying or doing things they never actually did, giving rise to numerous ethical and societal concerns.
The potential for harm is extensive, ranging from personal attacks to the dissemination of misinformation that could undermine political processes, incite violence, or even trigger international incidents.
Despite the emergence of laws and technological defenses, the rapid progress and accessibility of deepfake technology present a formidable challenge in terms of detection and regulation.
As deepfakes blur the boundaries between reality and fiction, they pose a grave threat to the integrity of information, personal reputations, and democratic institutions worldwide.