In a troubling case that highlights the darker side of artificial intelligence, Assam police arrested a 26-year-old man in Tinsukia for using AI-morphed images of influencer Archita Phukan to create a fake social media profile. He used this profile to harass her and damage her public reputation. This incident sheds light on the growing misuse of AI in digital crimes, especially against women.
Who Is Archita Phukan?
Archita Phukan, a lifestyle and fashion influencer based in Assam, commands a strong online presence. With thousands of followers on Instagram and YouTube, she often promotes regional culture, mental health, and empowerment.
Recently, she noticed a fake Instagram account mimicking her identity. The impersonator uploaded AI-generated images that looked almost real, sparking confusion among her followers. Some of them even began questioning her authenticity before she issued a clarification.
How Police Tracked Down the Culprit
The influencer immediately filed a complaint with Assam’s Cyber Crime Cell. Within a few days, police traced the IP address linked to the fake profile. The trail led them to a young man named Rakesh B., a resident of Tinsukia.
He confessed during questioning that he had used free AI image generators and face-swapping tools to create fake but realistic pictures. He admitted his intention was to embarrass Archita after she rejected his repeated messages on social media.
Police recovered his phone and laptop, both of which contained AI tools, screenshots, and login details related to the fake account. Officers confirmed that the materials will be used as digital evidence in court.
AI-Morphed Images: A Growing Threat in India
When Innovation Turns Dangerous
AI can generate stunning art, automate processes, and power new technologies. But in the wrong hands, these same tools can become weapons for online abuse. Deepfake and AI-morphing software can now produce realistic images that make it nearly impossible to detect manipulation.
Experts warn that victims may suffer not just reputational damage, but also emotional distress, anxiety, and real-world threats. In Archita’s case, she received dozens of vulgar messages after the fake profile circulated widely.
Legal Action and What’s Next
Assam police booked Rakesh under sections of the Information Technology Act, 2000, including:
- Section 66C (identity theft)
- Section 66E (violation of privacy)
- As well as IPC Section 354D (cyberstalking) and Section 509 (insulting modesty of a woman)
If convicted, he could face up to three years in prison along with a substantial fine.
Currently, authorities are scanning the accused’s online activity to identify whether he targeted other influencers using similar tactics.
What Can You Do to Stay Safe Online?
Online harassment through AI tools is still a grey legal area, but users can take action. Here are steps everyone should consider:
- Regularly search your name or brand online
- Use image reverse search to find unauthorized images
- Report impersonation or AI-generated abuse to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all platforms
- Consider watermarking original content
These steps may not prevent all attacks, but they make it harder for bad actors to replicate your identity.
Digital Laws Need Urgent Updates
The current Indian IT laws do not clearly define AI-generated abuse. However, public pressure is mounting. Lawmakers are now pushing for updates to the Digital India Act, which may soon include stricter controls on AI misuse and deepfake distribution.
Assam’s Women’s Commission has also urged the state to launch a special task force for cybercrimes involving emerging technologies.
“This is a form of digital assault,” said a Commission spokesperson. “AI-morphed images are not just fake—they’re weapons that harm real people.”
Let’s Act Before AI Harassment Becomes the Norm
The Tinsukia arrest marks a turning point for digital safety in India. While this case centers around AI-morphed images and a popular influencer, it’s a warning for everyone. Whether you’re a public figure or an everyday user, your online identity can be stolen, altered, and weaponized.
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