YouTube star Bhuvan Bam files police complaint over deepfake video
What's the story
YouTube sensation Bhuvan Bam has lodged a formal complaint with Mumbai's Oshiwara Police Station following the circulation of a fraudulent deepfake video.
The video falsely depicted Bam endorsing tennis investments based on a bookie's predictions.
"I want to alert all my fans and followers about a deepfake video of me that is making the rounds on social media," said Bam, stressing that the video was "completely fake and misleading."
Swift response
Bam's team took action, police investigation underway
Bam's team promptly responded to the misleading video by filing a complaint highlighting its fraudulent nature. The police are currently investigating the matter.
In a public statement, Bam urged his followers to exercise caution and avoid falling for such scams.
"Please stay safe and avoid making any investments that might lead to trouble or financial loss," he warned, emphasizing the importance of not getting ensnared by these deceptive lures.
Celebrity victims
Deepfake technology targeting Indian celebrities: A disturbing trend
Bam is not the first Indian celebrity to fall victim to deepfake technology.
Other actors, including Rashmika Mandanna, Aamir Khan, Katrina Kaif, and Ranveer Singh have also had fraudulent videos of them appear online.
Singh's deepfake video showed him criticizing the Indian government and urging people to vote for "Nayay (justice)" ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
It was later clarified that this video was manipulated and edited.
Career path
Bam's journey from YouTube to television
Bam began his career by posting a video mocking a news reporter who asked a woman insensitive questions about her son's death.
He launched his YouTube channel in 2015 and has since gained significant popularity.
In addition to his online presence, Bam will be seen in the upcoming second season of Taaza Khabar, a fantasy comedy thriller directed by Himank Gaur.