Sachin Tendulkar Featured in Deepfake Video Promoting Gaming App Raises Concerns

Renowned cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar finds himself entangled in the web of deepfake technology, as a fabricated video promoting a gaming application surfaced on social media platforms. Taking to the micro-blogging site X on Monday, Tendulkar denounced the deceptive video, urging users to report such instances in large numbers.

Expressing his concern over the misuse of technology, Tendulkar emphasized the need for social media platforms to be vigilant and responsive to complaints. He stressed that swift action is essential in curbing the dissemination of misinformation and deepfake content.

In the deceptive video, Tendulkar is seen endorsing the 'Skyward Aviator Quest' app, asserting that his daughter, Sara Tendulkar, is lucratively engaged with the gaming application. Despite the casual appearance of Tendulkar in the video, a closer examination reveals the video's fraudulent nature.

Tendulkar joins the list of celebrities targeted by deepfake videos, a trend that has seen notable figures like Infosys founder Narayana Murthy becoming victims. Recently, two deepfake videos featuring Murthy were circulated on social media, ostensibly promoting the 'Quantum AI' investing platform, promising users the ability to earn $3,000 (approximately Rs 2.5 lakh) on the first working day. One video even portrayed a manipulated version of Murthy collaborating on a 'Quantum AI' project with tech mogul Elon Musk.

The deepfake phenomenon extends beyond the realm of sports and business, affecting Bollywood stars such as Rashmika Mandanna, Alia Bhatt, Priyanka Chopra, Katrina Kaif, and various politicians, whose manipulated videos have gained widespread attention on social media platforms in recent times. Vigilance and timely action are imperative to combat the proliferation of deepfake content and safeguard the integrity of online information.

(With Agency Inputs)