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Tackling Deepfakes: Indian Government's Steps in 2023

Understanding the Legislative Framework Against Deepfakes

Tackling Deepfakes: Indian Government's Steps in 2023

  • 15 May, 2024
  • 267

Understanding the Indian Government's Approach to Deepfakes

In recent years, the rise of deepfake technology has raised significant concerns regarding misinformation and digital safety. In response, the Indian government has been proactive in addressing these challenges through a series of legislative measures and initiatives.

Government Initiatives Against Deepfakes

The Indian government is implementing several strategies to combat the prevalence of deepfakes:

  • Nominating a Rule Seven Officer to manage complaints against platforms.
  • Demanding that social media platforms align their policies with Indian laws within a strict seven-day timeframe.
  • Drafting new regulations specifically aimed at addressing the issues posed by deepfakes.
  • Providing assistance to citizens in filing First Information Reports (FIRs) against non-compliant platforms.

Four Pillars of Proposed Legislation

The legislative framework proposed by the government is built upon four essential pillars:

  • Detection of deepfake content to identify problematic material.
  • Prevention of the creation and distribution of deepfakes.
  • Establishment of effective reporting mechanisms for deepfake-related content.
  • Awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public about deepfakes and their implications.

The Role of the Rule Seven Officer

A pivotal component in the fight against deepfakes is the Rule Seven Officer. This officer will serve as a crucial link, allowing citizens to report violations of laws by social media platforms, particularly those related to deepfake content. They will be responsible for taking appropriate action based on the reports they receive.

Supporting Citizens in the Fight Against Deepfakes

The government is committed to empowering citizens by assisting them in filing FIRs against social media platforms that breach the Information Technology Rules concerning deepfakes. This initiative is aimed at fostering a safer digital environment.

Response from Social Media Intermediaries

Social media platforms have acknowledged the need for compliance with existing regulations under the Information Technology Act. However, they also recognize that the rapid evolution of technology and the increasing threat of deepfakes may necessitate further regulatory measures in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the Indian government doing to address deepfakes?
Answer: The government is nominating a Rule Seven Officer, drafting new regulations, and assisting citizens in filing FIRs against platforms for non-compliance with laws regarding deepfakes.

Q2. What are the four pillars of the proposed legislation?
Answer: The four pillars include detection of deepfakes, prevention of their creation, reporting mechanisms for deepfake content, and raising public awareness about the issue.

Q3. What is a Rule Seven Officer, and what is their role?
Answer: A Rule Seven Officer is designated to facilitate the reporting of law violations by social media platforms, focusing on deepfakes, and will take action based on citizen reports.

Q4. How will the government assist citizens in dealing with deepfakes?
Answer: The government will help citizens file FIRs against social media platforms that violate the Information Technology Rules regarding deepfakes, ensuring accountability.

Q5. What has been the response of social media intermediaries?
Answer: Social media platforms agree that while the current Information Technology Act provides a compliance framework, additional regulations may be necessary due to evolving technology.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the role of the Rule Seven Officer in combating deepfakes?
A) To create deepfake content
B) To manage complaints against social media platforms
C) To promote deepfake technology
D) To assist in the creation of regulations
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What is one of the four pillars of the proposed legislation against deepfakes?
A) Promotion of deepfake technology
B) Prevention of deepfake distribution
C) Decrease in social media usage
D) Increase in deepfake creation
Correct Answer: B

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