PIB Fact Check Exposes AI Deepfake Ad Misusing FM Sitharaman

The government’s PIB Fact Check has dismantled a deceptive Facebook-sponsored advertisement that misuses an AI-generated deepfake of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

The fabricated video falsely projects official approval for an investment scheme promising ₹15 lakh in monthly returns on a ₹22,000 deposit.

Authorities confirmed that fraudsters manipulated authentic news footage.

They inserted fabricated subtitles and overlaid promotional graphics to mislead viewers.

The clip also displayed bank insignia, including HDFC Bank and State Bank of India, to create a veneer of legitimacy.

Investigators traced the scam variant to December 2025. Fact-checkers noted that perpetrators recycled televised visuals and embedded exaggerated financial claims.

Reputed media outlets such as The Economic Times and Republic World have independently reported similar fraudulent campaigns.

Rising Deepfake Fraud Threat

PIB Fact Check reiterated that neither the Finance Minister nor the Government of India has endorsed such schemes.

Officials urged citizens to disregard advertisements promising extraordinary gains with minimal investment.

They emphasised that legitimate financial instruments do not guarantee unrealistic monthly profits.

The advisory aligns with repeated cautions issued by the Reserve Bank of India regarding deepfake-enabled financial fraud.

The central bank has warned that criminals increasingly exploit artificial intelligence to impersonate public figures and senior officials.

According to official assessments, digital scams caused losses exceeding ₹1,000 crore across India in 2025 alone.

Cybersecurity experts stated that fraudsters rely on algorithmic manipulation, synthetic voice cloning and edited footage to engineer credibility.

They exploit public trust in constitutional authorities to attract unsuspecting investors.

Officials advised users to verify any financial claim through authorised government portals and regulated banking channels before transferring funds.

The government has intensified digital literacy initiatives to curb online deception.

PIB Fact Check continues to monitor and counter misinformation campaigns across social media platforms.

Authorities have encouraged citizens to report suspicious advertisements immediately.

Law enforcement agencies remain vigilant. They are coordinating with technology intermediaries to remove deceptive content swiftly.

Officials stressed that public awareness and prompt verification remain the most effective safeguards against such AI-driven frauds.

Also Read: PIB Fact Check Exposes Deepfake Video Falsely Showing PM Modi Claiming Pakistan Downed Indian Rafale Jets