Hema Malini flags misuse of deepfake and AI targetting celebs: ‘These go viral and impact mental health’

Actor-politician Hema Malini spoke about the pitfalls of AI and deepfake in Lok Sabha. She also pointed out how trolls affect mental health.

Actor and BJP MP Hema Malini on Thursday raised in Lok Sabha the issue of "deepfake" technology targeting celebrities and asserted that this cannot be taken lightly as it tarnishes the image of the person concerned and casts a tremendous impact on the victim's mental health. (Also Read: Esha Deol reveals mom Hema Malini told her not to give up on romance: ‘Even if you have not made a name…’)

Hema Malini spoke about the misuse of AI and social media in Lok Sabha.(AFP)

Hema Malini on the impact of deepfake technology

Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Hema said artificial intelligence and deepfake technology have swept the world. While there are many pros to the technology, they also target celebrities belonging to the film industry, she said.

"These celebrities have worked very hard to make a name, fame and popularity. Many of us have become victims of this ruthless misuse which creates multiple fake videos tarnishing the image of the person concerned. These go viral and cast a tremendous impact on the victims' health," Hema said. "This cannot be taken lightly," she added.

The actor-politician also raised the issue of misuse of social media to make brutal comments on the personal lives of celebrities, often twisting facts to suit their narrative.

About Hema Malini

Hema had a long and illustrious career in the film industry before she switched to politics. She debuted in in 1963 with the Tamil film Idhu Sathiyam, and her Hindi debut was in 1968 with Sapno Ka Saudagar. In the 1970s, she was promoted as ‘Dream Girl’ in Bollywood.

Hema featured in numerous Hindi films and her films with Dharmendra were a hit. She married him in 1980 and they have two daughters – Esha and Ahana, who are also both actors. In 2004, she officially joined BJP after campaigning for the party since 1999.

With inputs from PTI