Is India Prepared to Combat Emerging Online Threats and Cyber Crimes?
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Synopsis
The Indian government is taking significant steps to combat online harms such as deepfakes, emphasizing the importance of user privacy and platform accountability. With the introduction of several laws and initiatives, India aims to create a secure cyberspace for its citizens.
Key Takeaways
- India is implementing laws to combat online harms.
- Deepfakes pose serious risks to privacy and reputation.
- Platforms must enhance user awareness and remove illegal content.
- The government has established a robust cybercrime reporting ecosystem.
- Public awareness campaigns are crucial in the fight against cyber threats.
New Delhi, Aug 8 (NationPress) The Indian government recognizes the dangers posed by deepfakes created through Artificial Intelligence (AI), which include fabricated audio, video, and text. Such content can significantly damage an individual's dignity, reputation, and right to privacy, raising serious questions about platform accountability, as reported in Parliament on Friday.
In its efforts to maintain an open, safe, and trustworthy online environment, the Government of India has implemented several laws, including the Information Technology Act of 2000 (IT Act), the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (IT Rules, 2021), and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act), addressing various facets of the deepfake challenge, stated Jitin Prasada, Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, in a response in Rajya Sabha.
The Information Technology Act, 2000, provides a legal framework for combating identity theft, impersonation, privacy violations, and the dissemination of obscene or misleading content.
The IT Rules, 2021, which were revised in 2022 and 2023, require platforms to exercise due diligence, swiftly remove illegal content, and enhance user awareness regarding deepfakes and misinformation.
The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, further fortifies protections by imposing penalties for the misuse of personal data, while the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, introduces stricter measures against disinformation and organized cybercrimes.
According to the minister, to implement these laws, the government has issued guidelines to digital platforms, stressing the importance of removing synthetic content that impersonates individuals and informing users about the unreliability of certain AI-generated materials.
Platforms are also instructed to adhere to grievance redressal timelines, particularly under the Grievance Appellate Committees (GACs) framework, the minister noted.
India’s response to cybercrime is bolstered by institutions such as the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), the SAHYOG portal for automated takedown notices, and the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, where citizens can report misuse, including offenses related to deepfakes.
CERT-In, India’s cybersecurity agency, continues to issue advisories on AI-related threats, with its latest guidance published in November 2024.
Initiatives like Cyber Jagrookta Diwas and Cyber Security Awareness Month further empower citizens to remain vigilant against digital threats.
Point of View
I firmly believe that India’s proactive approach to online harms showcases its commitment to safeguarding digital rights. The government’s focus on legislation demonstrates its authority and expertise in addressing cyber threats, ensuring a balanced ecosystem for all citizens.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are deepfakes?
Deepfakes are synthetic media created using artificial intelligence, which can manipulate audio, video, or text to misrepresent individuals.
How is the Indian government addressing cyber crimes?
The government has enacted laws such as the IT Act, IT Rules, and DPDP Act to combat cyber crimes and protect user privacy.
What measures are in place for user awareness?
The IT Rules mandate platforms to enhance user awareness regarding deepfakes and misinformation.
What is CERT-In?
CERT-In is India's cybersecurity agency that issues advisories on various cyber threats, including AI-related risks.
How can citizens report cyber crimes?
Citizens can report cyber crimes using the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
