The government examined how AI-generated content spread on social media and whether platform systems comply with India’s intermediary rules.
The Indian government, as per recent reports, has now amped up scrutiny of Meta over the circulation of deepfakes and manipulated content, while also examining whether the company’s algorithms and recommendation systems are contributing to their spread.
The move comes amid growing concerns over the use of AI to create realistic but misleading images, videos, and audio online.
The Indian government seeks action on deepfake content.
Officials have asked Meta to take measures against deepfake material appearing on its platforms. The discussions reportedly focus not only on individual pieces of harmful content but also on the systems through which such material can reach wider audiences. Deepfakes have become increasingly difficult to identify as generative AI tools improve. Content can now be altered or created with enough realism to make it difficult for ordinary users to distinguish between genuine and fabricated material.
The government’s attention to the issue reflects a broader challenge for social media companies: balancing the speed at which content is shared with their responsibility to limit harmful or deceptive material.
Algorithms also come under scrutiny.
A key part of the government’s review concerns recommendation algorithms. These systems determine, in part, what content users are shown and can influence how quickly a post reaches a larger audience.
Officials are examining whether such mechanisms could be helping problematic content gain visibility. The review also raises questions about whether Meta’s content moderation practices and recommendation systems are consistent with the obligations attached to its status as an intermediary in India.
The Centre is considering seeking legal advice after assessing the outcome of its recent discussions with Meta. Depending on the findings, scrutiny could also extend to other major digital platforms. Authorities are also looking at how technology companies design and operate the systems that determine what users see.
