The Legal Regulation of Deepfakes: Addressing Threats to Democracy and Public Discourse

Author(s)	Mr. Aarush Maindola
Country	India
Abstract	The rise of artificial intelligence has enabled the creation of deepfakes highly realistic synthetic media that challenge the distinction between truth and manipulation. This paper examines the legal, ethical, and democratic implications of deepfake technology, focusing on its role in misinformation, political influence, and the erosion of public trust. It analyzes existing regulatory frameworks in the United States, European Union, and India, highlighting significant gaps in addressing AI-generated content. The study also explores key challenges such as liability, authorship, and the balance between freedom of expression and protection from harm. It concludes by proposing a combined approach of legal regulation, technological solutions, and public awareness to effectively address the growing risks of deepfakes.
Keywords	Deepfakes, Artificial Intelligence, Misinformation, Democracy, Digital Manipulation, AI Governance, Freedom of Speech, Cyber Law, Election Security, Media Trust
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 2, March-April 2026
Published On	2026-03-31

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