AI-Generated Deepfakes Target Iranian Police and Military
Iran Police Cyber Command warned of AI-generated deepfakes falsely depicting police and military officials on social media, particularly Instagram, designed to spread misinformation and disturb public order. The police confirmed cases are under investigation and urged citizens to avoid sharing unverified content.
What happened
In recent days, social media accounts, particularly on Instagram, used AI technology to create fake images and videos falsely attributed to Iranian police and military commanders, according to Iran Police Cyber Command (FATA) head Brigadier Vahid Majid.
The fabricated content was designed to cast doubt, spread false news, and disturb public peace, though it had no connection to actual officials or military personnel.
Reported impact
FATA stated that detecting this type of fabrication is difficult for ordinary social media users, and that abusers of AI capabilities are deceiving public opinion, which can lead to public disturbance and confusion.
Under Iranian law, the production, distribution, and even conscious resharing of fake images and videos falsely attributed to individuals or organizations is a crime, and related cases are being processed seriously.
Index analysis
The incident demonstrates the misuse of generative AI to create synthetic media targeting government institutions and undermining public trust in official communications.
Governance controls
FATA urged citizens to verify content authenticity before sharing on social media and to refrain from resharing unverified images or videos, especially those attributed to police, military, or official government agencies.
FATA requested citizens to report suspicious content via the website fata.gov.ir or by phone.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.