Meta India Faces FIR Over AI Generated Video Case as Cyber Crime Probe Expands

A fresh controversy involving artificial intelligence generated content has placed Meta India under legal scrutiny after Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police registered an FIR against Meta India head Arun Srinivas and several social media users. The case is linked to the circulation of allegedly AI generated morphed videos featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi, raising fresh concerns about misinformation and platform responsibility.

According to reports, investigators are examining how edited videos were created and widely shared on social media platforms. Authorities are also looking into whether the circulation of these videos violated provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act. At this stage, officials have clarified that the investigation is still in its early phase and no individual has been found guilty.

The controversy follows the circulation of a video that was reportedly altered using artificial intelligence tools. Investigators believe some users modified the original footage and shared it in a different context, leading to allegations that the content could mislead viewers and spread false information. The probe is focused not only on those who created or distributed the content but also on the systems designed to detect and limit such material.

Officials say the suspected videos appeared on Facebook and Instagram, both operated by Meta. As part of the investigation, cyber crime authorities are examining how the content was uploaded, how widely it spread and whether existing moderation systems were effective in identifying and removing manipulated media before it gained traction.

The investigation also extends to the role of users who allegedly created, uploaded or reshared the videos. Police are working to identify those involved in producing the AI generated content and determine whether there was any coordinated effort behind its circulation. Digital evidence collected during the investigation will play a key role in deciding the next course of action.

The FIR comes shortly after Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police reportedly sought explanations from Meta regarding its approach to AI generated fake content, online scams and morphed videos. Authorities asked the company to explain the safeguards it has in place to detect manipulated media and remove harmful content from its platforms.

Meta has reportedly appeared before investigators and shared details about its content moderation systems and policies. The company has stated that it is cooperating with the ongoing investigation and providing the required information to authorities.

The case has once again drawn attention to the growing challenge posed by AI generated content on social media. Morphed videos use digital editing software or artificial intelligence to alter a person’s face, voice or expressions, creating clips that can falsely appear authentic. As AI tools become more advanced and accessible, experts believe distinguishing between genuine and manipulated content will become increasingly important for platforms, regulators and users alike.

With the investigation still underway, authorities are expected to rely on digital forensic evidence before taking further legal action. The outcome of the case could also influence future discussions on platform accountability and the regulation of AI generated content in India.