New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has directed the takedown of deepfake videos featuring entrepreneur and YouTuber Ankur Warikoo, which falsely depict him offering financial advice and promoting stocks through WhatsApp groups.
According to a report by Bar & Bench, Justice Amit Bansal on Monday ordered the removal of specific links identified in the petition. “I will direct take down of the links you have placed on record. It can’t be a blanket order for all future links,” the judge stated.
The court further restrained websites from uploading or distributing the impersonated content and mandated compliance with the order within five days.
Senior Advocate Swathi Sukumar, appearing for Warikoo, submitted that manipulated videos are being widely circulated on social media, showing the content creator recommending specific stocks, a practice he does not engage in.
“Deepfakes is a big problem now. This is active and complete impersonation. He gives some financial advise but he never advertises a particular stock,” she told the court.
Sukumar also pointed out that the fraudulent videos direct viewers to join a WhatsApp group under the pretext of receiving free investment tips from Warikoo, which misleads the public and damages his reputation.
It was argued that the deepfakes infringe upon Warikoo's personality and publicity rights, as well as the trademarks of his company, while potentially causing significant financial harm to unsuspecting investors.
The matter will be heard next on 8 October.
Advocates Rishabh Sharma, Mayank Bhargava, Abhishek Shivpuri, and Rajdeep Saraf also appeared on behalf of Warikoo.
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