The Troubling Surge of Viral Deepfakes and MMS

New Delhi, December 23, 2025: As 2025 draws to a close, the digital world is being reflected upon not just for its technological strides, but for a deeply concerning trend in online safety. Throughout the year, headlines were dominated by a series of high-profile viral videos and MMS leaks, many of which were powered by advanced AI deepfake technology. What began as a tool for creativity has been observed transforming into a weapon for harassment, causing significant distress to influencers, celebrities, and private individuals alike.

The Rise of the “19-Minute” Viral Trend

A recurring theme in the latter half of the year was the emergence of the so-called “19-minute viral video” hype. This specific duration became a “clickbait” tag used by malicious actors to spread non-consensual or fabricated content.

Also Read: Anjali Arora Speaks Out Against Viral Misinformation

Payal Gaming and the Deepfake Crisis

One of the most significant incidents of the year involved India’s leading female gaming influencer, Payal Dhare (Payal Gaming). In December 2025, a video was observed going viral that falsely depicted the creator in a compromising light.

A Year of Controversial Public Moments

Beyond the dark world of leaks, the “Year Ender 2025” list also includes moments where public actions were misinterpreted or amplified into scandals by the “digital judge and jury.”

The Legal and Ethical Fallout

The year 2025 is being viewed by experts as a “wake-up call” for digital privacy. It was noted that approximately 96% of deepfake content online remains non-consensual intimate imagery, with women being the primary targets. As we move into 2026, the “troubling digital trend” of 2025 serves as a reminder that the responsibility of a safer internet lies not just with the platforms, but with the users who choose whether to click “share” or “report.”