Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has become the latest victim of a disturbing trend – deepfakes. A manipulated video featuring Tendulkar promoting an online game has sparked outrage, prompting Mumbai Police to file a case against an unidentified culprit.
The fake video, which went viral on social media, showed Sachin Tendulkar endorsing the game and claiming his daughter earns a hefty sum daily through it. The veteran batter quickly debunked the video, calling it a “disturbing misuse of technology” and urging netizens to remain vigilant.
Tendulkar’s case highlights the growing threat of deepfakes, hyper-realistic AI-generated content that can make anyone say or do anything. This technology, while possessing creative potential, can also be weaponized to spread misinformation, damage reputations, and manipulate public opinion.
Govt took notice of Sachin Tendulkar deepfake video
The government has taken notice, with Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar promising stricter IT rules to hold social media platforms accountable for harmful content like deepfake. This case emphasizes the need for robust regulations and user awareness to combat this emerging threat.
While Sachin Tendulkar is a high-profile figure, countless individuals fall victim to deepfake every day. The consequences can be devastating, ranging from reputational damage to financial losses and emotional distress.
So, what can we do? Consumers must be critical of online content, verifying sources and checking for inconsistencies. Social media platforms need to step up their efforts to detect and remove deepfakes before they spread. Law enforcement agencies must investigate and prosecute those responsible for creating and disseminating these harmful videos.
Sachin Tendulkar’s deepfake ordeal serves as a wake-up call. It’s time to collectively confront the dangers of this technology and ensure that the digital world remains a safe and trustworthy space for everyone.
