Ahmedabad City Cyber Crime Branch has dismantled an interstate gang that used artificial intelligence to generate deepfake videos and commit Aadhaar-linked loan fraud, arresting three key suspects from Uttar Pradesh and Assam. The operation targeted a criminal network that bypassed biometric verification to hijack identities and secure personal loans without victims' knowledge or consent.

The arrested individuals are Krishna Rampratap Motilal Prajapati (22), a data broker from Uttar Pradesh who sourced Aadhaar details and photos; Rabbul Hussain (24), a student from Assam responsible for creating deepfake videos and opening fake bank accounts; and Kajimuddin (49), also from Assam, who laundered the illicit proceeds through his bank accounts. Investigators said the gang used social media platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram to collect victim photos, then employed AI tools including Gemini and Meta AI to produce 'Eye Blink' videos simulating live facial movements.

These synthetic videos were used to deceive Aadhaar's 'Live Face' verification system on UCL kits, allowing the gang to change the victim's registered mobile number without OTP access. With control of the number, they accessed DigiLocker, obtained PAN and GST details via third-party platforms, retrieved CIBIL reports from CRIF High Mark, and applied for loans through multiple lenders.

The breakthrough highlights growing vulnerabilities in digital identity infrastructure as cybercriminals weaponize accessible AI tools. Authorities warn that biometric and OTP-based authentication systems are increasingly at risk from automated spoofing techniques.

Police are expanding the investigation to identify other associates and potential victims, while issuing advisories to financial institutions to strengthen real-time biometric validation protocols. The cyber cell said it will collaborate with AI platform providers and regulatory bodies to trace and block misuse of generative tools in identity fraud.