Mumbai: Maharashtra Cyber has arrested the creator of a viral AI-generated deepfake MMS that falsely linked Indian gaming influencer Payal Dhare, popularly known online as Payal Gaming, to an explicit video circulated widely on social media. The arrest follows weeks of investigation after the YouTuber flagged the clip as fake and sought police intervention.
What triggered the investigation
The controversy erupted after a video titled “Payal Gaming Dubai MMS” began circulating across platforms, triggering widespread speculation and misinformation. The clip was falsely claimed to feature Payal Dhare while she was in Dubai. As the video gained traction, Payal publicly clarified that it was fabricated using deepfake technology and described the episode as deeply distressing.
She approached the authorities soon after, urging action against those misusing AI tools to damage reputations.
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Arrest made, identity revealed
Acting on digital leads, Maharashtra Cyber tracked down the creator of the fake video in January 2026 and arrested him. Officials also made the accused’s identity public as part of their enforcement action.
According to investigators, the accused identified himself as Abhishek Jadhav in a video statement. He admitted to creating and circulating the deepfake content and issued a public apology after police action. Maharashtra Cyber later shared details of the accused, including screenshots and videos, on its official Instagram account, confirming that legal notices had been served.
FIR under BNS and IT Act
A criminal FIR (No. 52/2025) has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act, covering charges related to identity fraud, online defamation, and the circulation of sexually explicit material.
Officials said the investigation is still underway to identify the wider network involved in producing and amplifying the content. Authorities have also traced the original uploader responsible for the first spread of the video, with another arrest expected soon.
Apology and admission of AI misuse
In his apology video, the accused acknowledged using AI tools to generate the deepfake and confirmed that the intent was to malign the influencer for online traction. He also revealed his Instagram handle, “dobiga,” which was allegedly used to push the content.
Maharashtra Cyber officials said the case highlights the growing misuse of generative AI and deepfake technology, and stressed that strict action will be taken against anyone found exploiting such tools to harass or defame individuals online.
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Payal Gaming speaks out
Payal Dhare broke her silence on December 17, 2025, through an Instagram post, making it clear that she was not the person seen in the video. Calling the fake content “dehumanising” and “deeply hurtful,” she warned that legal action would follow against those responsible.
The case has since reignited conversations around digital safety, AI regulation, and the responsibility of social media platforms in curbing the spread of manipulated content.
