Government Strengthens India Cybersecurity Rules to Tackle AI Deepfakes, Online Crimes and Harmful Digital Content

The Indian government is tightening cybersecurity and online safety regulations to combat cybercrime, AI-generated deepfakes, obscene content, and online harassment, with a particular emphasis on safeguarding women and children from emerging digital threats.

The Information Technology Act of 2000 and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules of 2021 serve as the government's primary legal framework. These regulations impose responsibilities on social media platforms and other internet services to prevent the spread of inappropriate, harmful, or privacy-invading content.

The government also modified the IT Rules in February 2026 to reflect the increasing usage of AI-generated content and deepfakes. According to the revised rules, social media platforms and other online services must take steps to prohibit the development and distribution of harmful AI-generated content. This includes fake or misleading contents, material that deceives a real person, and content that might harm children. Platforms are also obligated by Indian law to report certain offenses to the appropriate authorities, including cybercrime and child protection regulations.

People can report cybercrime to the government's National Cybercrime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in. The platform has a section specifically for reporting cybercrimes against women and children. It also allows users to file complaints anonymously, which can help victims record incidents without revealing their identities. Another feature, Report and Check Suspect, allows users to report suspicious website connections, phone numbers, WhatsApp numbers, Telegram accounts, email addresses, SMS headers, social network links, and artificial intelligence deepfakes.

The government is also spending money to improve India's ability to deal with cybercrime. Cyber forensic and training facilities have been established in 33 states and union territories. More than 24,600 police officers, judicial officers, and prosecutors have been trained in cybercrime investigation and digital forensics.

The government has also provided cyber safety training to nearly two lakh learners through the NCC, NSS, and NYKS programs. As digital risks develop, India is placing a greater emphasis on AI deepfake regulation, cybersecurity, cybercrime prevention, and online safety.

This article is based on information from Digital Studio India