16 October,2026 01:52 PM IST | Mumbai | Aishwarya Iyer
Notice was issued to the hosting platform, Maharashtra Cyber said. Pic/Special Arrangement
Maharashtra Cyber has initiated action following a complaint by social media influencer Sania Mistry over the alleged online circulation of obscene, morphed and AI-generated deepfake images, an official statement said on Friday.
The cybercrime department said it had begun a technical examination and legal proceedings after receiving the complaint. Investigators are working to identify those allegedly responsible for creating, uploading and circulating the manipulated images.
According to Maharashtra Cyber, a notice was issued to the hosting platform under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, directing it to remove the allegedly manipulated photographs.
The move aims to prevent further circulation of the images online.
The department also said forensic experts examined the photographs using AI-based deepfake detection tools. The analysis found that the images had been digitally altered and were not authentic, following which a certificate confirming the manipulation was issued.
Investigators are now attempting to identify the individuals involved in creating, uploading and sharing the content. Further legal action will depend on the findings of the investigation.
The case highlights concerns over the misuse of artificial intelligence to create and circulate manipulated images without a person's consent.
Following the complaint, Maharashtra Cyber warned citizens against creating, publishing or sharing sexually explicit or objectionable deepfake content.
The department said the misuse of emerging technologies to violate privacy or harm a person's dignity could attract legal action under applicable laws.
Citizens who encounter deepfake images, morphed photographs or online harassment have been urged to report the incidents through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at www.cybercrime.gov.in or seek assistance through the cybercrime helpline on 1930.
