Deepfakes: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has taken proactive measures to combat the spread of misinformation through deepfakes. In a response to concerns raised in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, revealed that advisories have been issued to major social media platforms. The government aims to uphold a safe, trusted, and accountable internet for all users.Tackling Deepfakes: Advisories and Legal MeasuresAdvisories have been sent to significant social media platforms, urging them to incorporate provisions in their rules and user agreements. These provisions are aimed at preventing the hosting, display, modification, or sharing of any information prohibited under IT rules. Minister Chandrasekhar clarified that the governments policies are designed to ensure an open, safe, and accountable internet in India.Legal Framework and Responsibilities of IntermediariesChandrasekhar outlined the legal consequences for those engaging in fraudulent activities using computer resources. Section 66D of the Information Technology Act, 2000, prescribes imprisonment up to three years and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh for cheating through personation. He highlighted the obligations of social media intermediaries under Rule 3(1)(b)(vii) of IT Rules, 2021, emphasizing due diligence and content moderation.Addressing Ethical Use of Advanced TechnologiesResponding to queries on the ethical use of futuristic technologies, including AI, machine learning, blockchain, and Web3, Minister Chandrasekhar emphasised the governments commitment to preventing the harm caused by misinformation. The issuance of advisories to social media platforms underscores the importance of aligning terms of use with IT rules and educating users on permissible content.Dark Web Monitoring and Personal Data ProtectionRegarding active monitoring of the dark web, the Minister clarified that the term Dark Net refers to content not visible through general browsing. The government has implemented reasonable security practices and procedures through the Information Technology (Reasonable Security Practices and Procedures and Sensitive Personal Data or Information) Rules, 2011. These rules mandate privacy policies, secure handling of information, and penalties for disclosure breaches.Consequences for Non-ComplianceIn case of non-compliance with IT Rules, 2021, social media platforms risk losing safe harbour protection under Section 79 of the IT Act. Rule 7 of IT Rules, 2021, outlines the liability for consequential actions under various applicable laws, including the Indian Penal Code.The governments comprehensive approach aims to create a secure online environment, combat deepfakes, and protect user privacy while holding social media platforms accountable for content moderation.
