AI-generated deepfake videos, voice cloning emerge as potential threats during election season

Cybersecurity experts have raised concerns over the possible misuse of AI and deepfake technology during India’s elections.

As political parties go all out to woo voters ahead of the general elections, cybersecurity experts have raised concerns over the possible misuse of artificial intelligence and deepfake technology, among others, to influence the electorate.

Lok Sabha polls in India will take place in seven phases between April 19 and June 1.

The Election Commission of India has already issued standard operating procedures for identification and quick response to fake news and misinformation.

"Deepfake videos and voice cloning are two tools that could be massively used during the election campaign," a senior officer of the Delhi Police's cyber crimes unit said.

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He believes that a major challenge before the police is timely detection of such content and taking prompt action.

There is no technology available that can automatically detect and differentiate between original and fake video content created using artificial intelligence (AI).