PIB Fact Check Exposes Deepfake Video Falsely Showing Nirmala Sitharaman Promoting Investment Scheme

India’s official fact-verification unit, PIB Fact Check, has exposed a digitally manipulated video that falsely depicts Nirmala Sitharaman promoting a lucrative investment scheme.

Authorities confirmed that the circulating clip is entirely fabricated and carries no endorsement from the government.

The misleading video claims that the Union Finance Minister supports a scheme promising an extraordinary monthly return of ₹25.5 lakh on an initial investment of merely ₹22,000.

Officials clarified that no such programme exists under any government initiative.

Investigators released a 48-second explanatory clip demonstrating how the fraudulent content was created.

The footage highlights altered frames and overlays prominent ‘FAKE’ markers at crucial timestamps.

These visual indicators expose the manipulation techniques used to fabricate the claims.

Experts say the incident reflects a growing wave of deepfake scams targeting well-known public figures.

Cybercriminals increasingly exploit artificial intelligence tools to fabricate convincing videos and promote fraudulent financial offers.

Authorities noted that similar deception campaigns have surfaced across India since 2025.

In one documented case, a doctor in Hyderabad reportedly lost ₹20 lakh after falling victim to a comparable investment fraud in June 2025.

Officials have urged citizens to remain cautious when encountering viral financial promotions on social media.

They advised verifying claims through trusted government platforms such as the Press Information Bureau and its official website before investing money.

Cyber experts stress that vigilance and digital literacy help combat misinformation in the evolving online environment.

They also emphasise that informed users can prevent financial exploitation by verifying claims and recognising deceptive digital content.

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