Indonesia Reports Deepfake Surge Targeting Women and Children
Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital reported that deepfake cases have surged 550 percent since 2019, with 90 percent used for harmful purposes, disproportionately affecting women and children through manipulated visual and audio content. The government issued a regulation in July 2025 to strengthen protections through digital literacy, content removal, and law enforcement cooperation.
What happened
According to Sensity AI reporting cited by Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital, Nezar Patria, deepfake cases have surged 550 percent since 2019, with 90 percent used for harmful purposes.
Manipulative visual and audio content targets vulnerable groups, particularly women and children. At least 11 percent of women aged 15 to 29 have experienced online gender-based violence since childhood.
Reported impact
Women and children are identified as the groups most affected by deepfake misuse. The technology creates misleading content that can weaken public trust.
Index analysis
The Indonesian government, through Komdigi, has implemented three main strategies: digital literacy education, removal of harmful content, and cooperation with law enforcement to address digital crimes.
In July 2025, Komdigi issued Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 (PP Tunas), which regulates the operation of electronic systems for child protection in the digital space.
Governance controls
Komdigi emphasizes digital literacy as a foundational skill, including critical ability to assess information and protect personal data privacy.
The government called on local authorities, communities, and families to strengthen a healthy and safe digital ecosystem to support inclusive national digital transformation.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.