5-Year Deepfake Scam Behind Viral Archita Phukan Video Shakes Internet

Archita Phukan

The name “Archita Phukan” went widespread on social media in June 2025 under the username “Babydoll Archi.” Her alluring online image attracted millions of fans, but underneath the glamour came a startling reality: the entire persona was a sophisticated deepfake fraud that had been operating for five years.

The videos and images that captured the attention of over 1.3 million followers were not real. They were the product of advanced AI technology and the malicious intent of Archita’s ex-boyfriend, Pratim Bora.

The saga began in August 2020 when the Instagram account “Babydoll Archi” started posting alluring photos and videos of a young woman. By mid-2025, a viral reel featuring Kate Lynn’s song “Damn Un Girl” dramatically boosted the account’s popularity.

Viewers had no idea that the stunning visuals and seductive content were all artificially created using deepfake AI tools. The real Archita Phukan was completely unaware of the online identity theft and manipulation occurring in her name.

Pratim Bora, a mechanical engineer and Archita’s former partner, was behind the elaborate scheme. Using personal photos from their past relationship and AI software, he crafted the “Babydoll Archi” profile, which gradually evolved to include explicit content.

This profile was monetized heavily, generating significant income through paid subscriptions and sales of videos and images, reportedly earning lakhs of rupees.

The deceit continued undetected until Archita’s brother noticed suspicious and altered images circulating online and filed a complaint with the cybercrime authorities in Dibrugarh. Following a thorough investigation and IP tracking, police arrested Pratim. He confessed to using AI as a tool for revenge after their breakup.

Pratim now faces multiple charges under the Indian Penal Code, including cyber harassment, defamation, and identity impersonation. Authorities have seized his devices and frozen his accounts. This case is considered one of India’s largest deepfake identity frauds to date, raising urgent concerns about digital privacy and AI misuse.

Experts warn that deepfake technology requires as little as five photos to create highly realistic fake profiles, making it a potent tool for online fraud. This incident highlights the serious risks of unregulated AI and the critical need for stringent digital consent laws and stronger protections on social media platforms.

As the Archita Phukan deepfake scandal unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the evolving digital threats in India’s online landscape, urging lawmakers and technology companies to collaborate on safeguarding citizens against AI-powered exploitation.