The creator behind Indian gaming influencer Payal Gaming’s viral AI-generated MMS controversy has been identified and detained by the Maharashtra Cyber Department, marking a major development in one of India’s most high-profile deepfake cases.
YouTuber Payal Dhare, popularly known as Payal Gaming, had sparked nationwide concern after an AI-generated intimate video, falsely titled “Payal Gaming Dubai MMS”, went viral across social media platforms. The video was widely circulated with claims that it featured Payal, prompting severe online harassment and reputational damage.
Payal later clarified that the video was fabricated using deepfake technology and formally approached law enforcement for action.
Maharashtra Cyber Identifies and Acts Against the Accused
In January 2026, Maharashtra Cyber officials confirmed that they had tracked and detained the individual responsible for creating and initially circulating the deepfake video. Images of the legal notice and the accused were shared via the department’s official Instagram handle, underscoring the seriousness of the offence.
A criminal FIR (No. 52/2025) was registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act, including sections related to:
- Online defamation
- Identity theft
- Publication and circulation of sexually explicit material
Officials stated that investigations are ongoing to identify others involved in the distribution network.
Who Created Payal Gaming’s Fake MMS?
Following police action, one of the accused publicly came forward and issued an apology. In a video shared by Maharashtra Cyber, the individual identified himself as Abhishek Jadhav, admitting that he had created and circulated the fake “19-minute” video using AI tools.
He revealed his Instagram handle as “dobiga” and acknowledged that the visuals were fabricated with the intention of generating viral traction. In his apology, he expressed regret for defaming Payal Gaming and apologised both to her and the cyber authorities.
Why Was Payal Gaming Targeted?
Payal Gaming became the target of online defamation shortly after her popularity surged in late 2025. She had gone viral after being spotted in the stands during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final match between India and Australia in Dubai, where she was widely referred to as the “viral girl in the stands.”
Investigators believe that the deepfake video was deliberately titled “Payal Gaming Dubai MMS” to exploit this sudden visibility and attract clicks, downloads, and engagement.
Payal Gaming’s Response and Legal Stand
On December 17, 2025, Payal broke her silence through an Instagram post, firmly stating that she was not the person in the video. She described the incident as “deeply hurtful” and “dehumanising,” and confirmed that she had initiated legal action against those misusing AI technology to malign her image.
Her case has since become a reference point in discussions around AI misuse, privacy violations, and cyber harassment.
A Growing Pattern of Deepfake and MMS Hoaxes
Payal Gaming’s case is part of a broader trend affecting internet personalities and celebrities. Content creators such as Sweet Zannat and Splitsvilla couple Sakshi Shrivas and Justin D’Cruz have also faced similar hoaxes. While the accused in Sweet Zannat’s case were identified, investigations related to Sakshi and Justin’s incident are still ongoing.
These incidents have highlighted the urgent need for stronger safeguards against AI-driven defamation and digital abuse.
Final Takeaway
The arrest in Payal Gaming’s deepfake MMS case sends a clear message that online anonymity does not guarantee impunity. As AI tools become more accessible, authorities and experts continue to stress the importance of accountability, digital literacy, and swift legal action to curb such misuse.
