In a striking case of digital revenge, the Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing has arrested a woman in Chennai for allegedly using artificial intelligence tools to morph photographs of a former colleague and circulate them on social media platforms.
Police officials said the accused had earlier worked at the same company where the victim currently holds a senior executive position. Preliminary findings indicate that the woman downloaded the victim’s images from the company’s official website and altered them using AI applications before sharing the edited content online.
The case came to light after the victim lodged a complaint over the misuse of digital platforms. Cyber investigators then carried out technical analysis of social media activity and electronic trails, which ultimately led them to the accused.
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Director General of Police (Cyber Crime Wing) Sandeep Mittal said cyber harassment and the circulation of offensive online content are punishable offences, urging citizens to exercise responsibility on social media and remain vigilant about protecting personal data.
Officials said the accused is being investigated under cyber harassment provisions, while forensic examination of seized digital devices is underway to determine where the morphed images were posted and whether others were involved.
Police noted a growing trend of AI-based photo morphing and digital defamation in recent months, warning that such crimes can cause serious psychological, social and professional harm to victims.
The Cyber Crime Wing has advised the public to immediately report such incidents through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal or the toll-free helpline 1930, enabling swift intervention.
Authorities said surveillance of technology-driven offences has been intensified, and strict legal action will be pursued against those found misusing digital tools for harassment or revenge.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
