New Delhi, September 18 — What begins as playful engagement with AI-powered apps and viral social media challenges is increasingly turning into a digital minefield, cybersecurity experts warn. In a detailed exposé published by Deccan Chronicle, specialists have raised alarms over the growing misuse of artificial intelligence in seemingly harmless online trends.
With the explosive rise of AI-driven filters, face-scanning apps, and body-mapping tools, millions of users—especially in countries like India with high social media penetration—are unknowingly sharing sensitive biometric data. Experts caution that platforms promoting “fun” challenges often collect facial topology, behavioral patterns, and other personal identifiers that can later be exploited for identity theft, financial fraud, or deepfake manipulation.
One of the most concerning developments is the proliferation of deepfake technology. These AI-generated videos can convincingly depict individuals in fabricated or inappropriate scenarios without their consent, posing serious reputational and legal risks. Cybersecurity professionals note that such tools are now easily accessible and require minimal technical expertise to deploy.
Ashish Kumar Saini, founder of Connecting Cyber Networks, emphasized the urgency of public awareness. “Your identity is more valuable than you think,” he said, urging users to think twice before submitting personal images or scans to unverified platforms. His organization has launched campaigns and training programs to educate citizens on digital hygiene and data protection.
The report also highlights how AI-powered tools can fabricate entire life events, create duplicate identities, and even apply for loans or medical claims using stolen data. In many cases, users are lured by incentives such as gift cards or exclusive access, unknowingly compromising their privacy.
While AI continues to offer transformative benefits across industries, experts agree that its darker applications—especially in consumer-facing entertainment—require urgent regulation and user vigilance. The message is clear: what starts as a harmless trend can quickly become a digital trap.
