Ashwini Vaishnaw flags deepfakes, misinformation, disinformation ‘barrage’ as major threat to public trust

At the DNPA Conclave 2026, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw expressed serious concerns regarding the proliferation of deepfakes and the rampant spread of misinformation and disinformation. He highlighted how these digital threats pose significant challenges to public trust, particularly in an era increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence. Vaishnaw urged digital platforms to take proactive measures to ensure the integrity and safety of the content they host. He underscored the importance of accountability among tech companies to combat the risks associated with AI-generated material, advocating for a collaborative approach to safeguard the public from misleading information. The Minister's remarks come at a time when misinformation has emerged as a critical issue affecting societal discourse, making it imperative for stakeholders to address these challenges effectively to uphold democratic values and public confidence.