Rajasthan man held for deepfake scam targeting Tamil Nadu CM seeks bail

J. Shyabu Khan, a resident of Boontoli village in Alwar district, Rajasthan, has moved the Madras High Court seeking bail in connection with an alleged deepfake fraud scheme. According to reports, Khan is accused of creating and circulating synthetic videos featuring Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to solicit money from unsuspecting victims.

The case highlights the growing menace of deepfake technology being misused for financial fraud across India. Investigators allege that the accused exploited the Chief Minister's image to build credibility with potential victims, using the fabricated videos to convince them to transfer funds under false pretenses.

Justice N. Ramesh of the Madras High Court is scheduled to hear Khan's bail petition on Friday. The hearing will determine whether the accused should be released on bail pending trial or remain in custody. The case underscores law enforcement agencies' ongoing efforts to tackle digital fraud and the misuse of synthetic media for criminal purposes.

Authorities have warned the public against clicking on suspicious links or transferring money based on unverified video messages, particularly those purporting to involve public figures. Cybercrime cells across southern states have intensified investigations into similar deepfake schemes in recent months.