AI Deepfake Video Misuses Nepal Police Uniform to Promote Illegal Betting on Facebook

 

Kathmandu. An AI-generated video that falsely uses the uniform and logo of Nepal Police to promote an illegal online betting platform has surfaced on Facebook, raising concerns about the misuse of deepfake technology to deceive the public.

The roughly 30-second advertisement features an AI-generated person dressed in a Nepal Police uniform, appearing to warn viewers against using "fake" betting platforms before endorsing a specific gambling website as reliable and legal. The video falsely claims that the platform is officially recognized in Nepal and that users, including the person in the video, are earning substantial income through it.

However, all forms of online gambling and betting remain illegal under Nepali law, and the Nepal Police has not endorsed any such platform.

The misleading video has already gained significant traction on Facebook, attracting millions of views, more than 16,000 reactions, and over 750 comments. While some users identified the clip as an AI-generated deepfake, many appeared to believe it was authentic.

The betting platform presents itself as Nepal's official gaming site and regularly publishes promotional content in Nepali. The use of Nepal Police's identity appears to boost the platform's credibility and attract Nepali users, particularly as interest in football betting has increased during the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026.

The incident arises despite the government's continued crackdown on illegal online betting. In its 100-day action plan, the government pledged to block betting platforms within 24 hours of detection. The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA), in coordination with internet service providers and mobile operators, has since intensified efforts to restrict access to such websites.

According to government officials, more than 200,000 betting-related links have been blocked so far. However, misleading advertisements and illegal betting platforms continue to circulate on social media, highlighting the growing challenge of AI-powered misinformation and online fraud.

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