AI-generated deepfake hoaxes spread during Indonesian protests
AI-generated deepfake hoaxes, including false claims of looting at government and commercial buildings, spread on social media during Indonesian street protests in late August 2025. A civil society organization warned the public that such content could intensify tensions and violence.
What happened
Hoaxes created with AI deepfake technology circulated on digital platforms during demonstrations in Indonesia that began on 28 August 2025. According to Masyarakat Antifitnah Indonesia (Mafindo), the hoaxes included false claims of looting at the DPR building and Atrium Senen mall.
Reported impact
Mafindo stated that hoaxes about riots, looting and police repression spread via social media and messaging apps could worsen the situation and trigger escalation of violence, causing uncertainty, anger, hate speech incitement, and violent acts.
Index analysis
Mafindo noted that alongside street demonstrations, netizens voiced aspirations through digital activism including live streams and social media posts. The organization warned the public to be cautious of misinformation, disinformation, malinformation and hate speech among the flood of information on social platforms.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.