What is the reason behind the abundance of deepfake videos featuring Bollywood actresses?

The rise of deepfake videos targeting Bollywood stars has become a concerning issue in recent weeks. Celebrities such as Rashmika Mandanna, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Alia Bhatt have been victims of these malicious videos, where their faces or voices are replaced with someone else's. These deepfakes are often created using pictures taken from social media profiles without consent. According to AI expert Aarti Samani, recent developments in artificial intelligence have made it easier to create realistic fake audio and video of people. The accessibility and low cost of tools that can create synthetic images contribute to the rise of deepfakes in India. Additionally, factors such as a large young population, heavy use of social media, and a fascination with Bollywood and celebrity culture magnify the problem. The motivation behind creating these deepfakes is twofold. They generate large ad revenue and there is also the possibility of selling data of people who engage with the content without their knowledge. While fake images are often used in pornographic videos, fake videos can be made of almost anything. The impact of deepfakes is particularly problematic for women. Research firm Sensity AI estimates that between 90% and 95% of all deepfakes are non-consensual porn, with the majority targeting women. This further objectifies women's bodies and denies them dignity and autonomy over the portrayal of their bodies. Governments and tech companies are being called upon to take action against deepfakes. In India, the government has been cracking down on deepfakes ahead of the general election year. Social media platforms are required to ensure that no misinformation is posted, with potential legal consequences for non-compliance. The problem of deepfakes extends beyond Bollywood actors and affects politicians, business people, and others. Governments worldwide are concerned about the impact deepfakes can have on various aspects, including democratic viability in elections. Holding social media platforms accountable and proactive identification and takedown of deepfakes are essential steps to address this issue. Male support and allyship are also crucial in tackling the problem. It is important for men to join the conversation and support the victims of deepfakes.