Govt asks Meta for algorithm changes to curb deepfakes, propaganda
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has directed Meta to submit a detailed compliance roadmap outlining the steps it will take to strengthen
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has directed Meta to submit a detailed compliance roadmap outlining the steps it will take to strengthen content moderation, curb the spread of propaganda and tackle illicit material across its platforms, government sources said. The directions were issued during a meeting between senior government officials and Meta representatives, where the social media giant's technical team made a presentation on its existing systems and ongoing efforts to address harmful online content. Read Full Story According to sources, the government has asked Meta to implement algorithmic changes aimed at limiting the spread of propaganda, deepfakes and other manipulated or unlawful content.
Officials also directed the company to ensure compliance with India's data localisation requirements and accelerate the removal of content flagged by authorised government agencies. ESTABLISH COORDINATION WITH QRTs: GOVT TO META The Centre has further asked Meta to establish close coordination with Quick Response Teams (QRTs) across various departments of the Government of India to facilitate faster detection and takedown of deepfake videos, morphed images and other misleading content. The move is aimed at improving real-time responses to online misinformation and preventing the rapid circulation of harmful material.
The latest meeting comes hours after Meta acknowledged shortcomings in its algorithmic systems during discussions with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). According to sources, the talks focused on gaps in the company's recommendation algorithms and its compliance with Indian laws. Meta's global technical team is expected to remain in India for further consultations, with additional meetings planned to address the government's concerns. DISCUSSIONS FOCUSED ON STRENGTHENING ACCOUNTABILITY Sources said the discussions focused on strengthening platform accountability and enhancing cooperation between Meta and government agencies as concerns grow over the misuse of artificial intelligence to create deceptive content.
The government is understood to have emphasised that social media platforms must proactively deploy technological safeguards to prevent the spread of manipulated content while ensuring timely compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. The meeting comes amid the Centre's broader push to tighten oversight of digital platforms and strengthen mechanisms to combat misinformation, deepfakes and other emerging online threats. Ends
The BriefWire