In a major step toward digital accountability, Google has unveiled a new AI Safety Charter for India. This initiative is designed to address the growing concerns around deepfakes, online scams, and broader cybersecurity issues, reflecting how tech giants are increasingly being held responsible for the unintended consequences of artificial intelligence.

Seven-Point Safety Plan

This AI Safety Charter is the first of its kind, tailored specifically for India and includes a seven-point action plan. It underscores Google’s commitment to ensuring the safe deployment of AI technologies while recognising the potential misuse of such tools in a country with a rapidly expanding digital population. The company emphasised the need for a unified front involving industry leaders, governments, and civil society to curb the misuse of generative AI technologies. Deepfakes and identity frauds powered by AI have been on the rise in India, prompting the need for swift action.

Also Read: Meta x Prada? Fashion Meets AI in Upcoming Smart Glasses

Joining Hands with Misinformation Watchdogs

Google is also joining forces with Indian fact-checking networks to counter fake news and misinformation. This partnership will provide tools and training to help these organisations detect and report deepfakes and AI-generated deception more effectively. Additionally, the company has pledged to improve transparency in AI-generated content. Clearer labelling and disclosure practices will be adopted to help users distinguish between real and synthetic media.

Consumer Awarness 

To build public resilience against AI-based deception, Google plans to roll out several consumer awareness campaigns. These initiatives will help users identify scams and malicious deepfakes and promote digital literacy, especially in vulnerable user groups. The charter also outlines Google's intent to promote safer product development practices, ensuring that its AI systems are aligned with human- centric values. 

Also Read: Would You Buy a Trump Phone? Because It’s Here — and It's Flashy

Responsibility Beyond the Code

Google’s move comes in response to growing calls for accountability from policymakers and digital rights activists in India. The Charter appears to be an attempt to proactively address the policy vacuum surrounding AI governance, ahead of any hardline regulations.