Global Digital Security Governance: PM Modi Calls for Joint Action Against Cyber Fraud and Deepfakes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a global framework to tackle cross-border cyber fraud, deepfakes and digital crimes arguing that the rapidly expanding digital economy requires security mechanisms that operate across national boundaries. Addressing the 10th India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2026 in New Delhi on October 8, Modi urged governments, technology companies, telecom operators and financial institutions to work together to prevent fraud before it reaches citizens.
From Reactive Policing to Preventive Digital Governance
The Prime Minister emphasised that cybercrime increasingly operates through multiple jurisdictions. A criminal operating from one country can exploit infrastructure or accomplices in another country to target victims elsewhere, making isolated national responses less effective. He therefore advocated an international mechanism capable of identifying and blocking fraudulent activity closer to its source.
Deepfakes have emerged as another major governance challenge. AI-generated audio, video and images can make fabricated content increasingly difficult to distinguish from authentic material, raising risks for public trust, financial systems and digital communication. Modi stressed that technology can scale sustainably only when people trust the digital ecosystem.
Why the Governance Shift Matters
India’s rapid expansion of mobile connectivity, digital payments and online public services has increased the importance of cybersecurity as a core governance issue. The proposed approach points towards greater coordination among telecom networks, financial institutions, technology platforms and regulators, with prevention and rapid detection becoming as important as post-crime investigation.
The call also positions India as a potential contributor to international digital-security standards. Modi said India is prepared to share its experience in addressing cyber fraud with the global community.
Governance Bharat Take: The central policy message is clear—digital expansion and digital security must advance together. A globally coordinated prevention architecture could become increasingly important as AI-generated content and cross-border cybercrime grow more sophisticated.
