AI-generated deepfake video of journalist Benazir Shah circulated on X
An AI-generated deepfake video of Pakistani journalist Benazir Shah was created and uploaded to X by an account followed by Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar. The minister condemned the act as unacceptable and promised action, but Shah declined to pursue a formal complaint under Pakistan's Prevention of Electronic Crime Act, citing misuse of the law against journalists.
What happened
An X account followed by Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar created and uploaded an AI-generated deepfake video of female journalist Benazir Shah.
Shah revealed the fake video on X and stated that attacks would not silence her.
Reported impact
The deepfake video was circulated to target and intimidate the journalist.
Index analysis
The incident raises concerns about the use of synthetic media to harass journalists and undermine press freedom.
Governance controls
Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar termed the act 'totally unacceptable and highly condemnable' and stated that appropriate action would be taken against those responsible.
Shah declined to file a complaint under the Prevention of Electronic Crime Act (PECA) through the National Counter Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), citing concerns that the institution has been used to harass journalists and suppress dissent, and called for the abolition of both PECA and the NCCIA.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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