Abstract

The spread of deepfake technology has created tremendous legal issues, especially regarding the possibility of misuse on social media sites. Deepfakes based on artificial intelligence for creating forged media are potential threats to privacy, reputation, and national security. This research discusses the use of intermediaries and social media websites in inhibiting the dissemination of deepfakes under Indian IT laws. It investigates the legal mechanism offered by the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) and associated regulations to determine the intermediary's liability to curb the spread of dangerous deepfakes. The paper deconstructs the role of platforms in detecting, deleting, and stopping the re-uploading of deepfake materials, while addressing free speech and privacy rights. The research further examines the existing gaps in the law and proposes regulatory responses to address the emergent threat of deepfake technology.

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