Deepfake of IPS Officer Ankita Sharma Goes Viral, Sending Shockwaves Among Netizens
3 min readIn a disturbing development that highlights the growing menace of cybercrime in India, a deepfake video featuring IPS officer Ankita Sharma has gone viral on social media. Ankita Sharma, an officer from the 2018 batch of the Indian Police Service (IPS) and currently posted as the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (ADCP) in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, has been depicted in a manipulated video that falsely portrays her offering financial opportunities. The 32-second video, reportedly created using advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques, shows IPS Ankita Sharma suggesting ways to earn up to INR 30,000 per month by packing pencils and pens at home.
What Happened?
The video, which has quickly spread across various social media platforms, misuses the likeness and voice of the respected IPS officer to suggest that individuals can easily make money with minimal effort. The deepfake video indicates that people would receive INR 15,000 in advance to begin the work, thus preying on vulnerable individuals seeking quick financial gain.
Upon discovery of the video, Ankita Sharma promptly filed a complaint at the Kanpur police station, leading to an investigation. According to sources, the viral video is suspected to have been created using sophisticated AI techniques, and the police are currently working to trace and apprehend those responsible for this cybercrime.
Background and Broader Implications
Ankita Sharma is known for her commendable work in the police force and has an impeccable reputation. The deepfake video targeting her is not an isolated incident but is part of a growing trend where cybercriminals exploit AI to create misleading and potentially harmful content. In recent years, deepfake technology has been increasingly used to create videos that can manipulate public perception, spread disinformation, and tarnish the reputations of public figures.
ISO Awarded: A Historic Day for the Noida Police Commissionerate Headquarters
The case of IPS Ankita Sharma is reminiscent of similar incidents involving celebrities and public figures, such as the viral deepfake videos of actress Rashmika Mandanna and independent MLA from Rajasthan, Ritu Banawat. These videos, which falsely depicted the individuals in compromising situations, were later found to be entirely fabricated using AI technology.
The Role of AI in Cybercrime
The use of AI in creating deepfake videos represents a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies globally. Cybercriminals exploit AI to produce highly realistic but entirely fake content, which can be used for blackmail, fraud, and disinformation. The implications for privacy, security, and trust in digital content are profound, as deepfake technology continues to evolve and become more accessible.
The swift action by IPS Ankita Sharma in reporting the incident has set an example of how to respond to such threats. However, this case also underscores the urgent need for increased cybersecurity measures, public awareness, and legal frameworks to combat the misuse of AI technologies.
What’s Next?
The Kanpur police, under the guidance of the Police Commissioner, are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. The initial findings suggest that the video was created using advanced AI techniques, and efforts are being made to trace the origin of the video and hold the perpetrators accountable. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in the digital age and the need for comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by deepfake technology.
Follow The420.in on
About Author
