IN | Incident Report
Deepfake Crime
2026-01-07
Punjab police probe AI ‘deepfake’ image showing fake protest sign in Sangrur
AI Model: Unspecified generative AI tool
I. Executive Summary
An AI-generated image depicting a fictitious protest sign outside the Sangrur deputy commissioner’s residence went viral in Punjab.
Local officials publicly confirmed the image was fabricated and said it appeared intended to tarnish the state government and district administration.
Police tasked the district cybercrime cell with identifying the creator(s) and warned users against sharing unverified manipulated content.
II. Key Facts
- An AI-generated ‘deepfake’ image circulated online showing a fabricated protest sign outside the deputy commissioner’s residence.
- The deputy commissioner publicly confirmed no such sign existed and described the image as a deliberate hoax.
- The senior superintendent of police directed the Sangrur cybercrime cell to trace the image’s creators and those who spread it.
- Police warned that both creators and unverified sharers could face action as the investigation proceeds.
III. Regulatory & Ethical Implications
The incident illustrates increasing use of criminal and cyber units to investigate AI-generated misinformation, including potential liability for both originators and amplifiers.
Counsel and public-affairs advisers should ensure rapid verification, takedown requests, and forensic preservation when synthetic media may impact public order or reputation.