Payal Gaming Viral Video Row: Maharashtra Cyber Police Register Case, Confirm Clip Is Fake

Over the past two days, social media platforms have been flooded with posts claiming that a private video features popular Indian gaming YouTuber Payal Gaming, whose real name is Payal Dhare. The clip, widely referred to online as a "Dubai MMS video", spread rapidly across platforms, triggering speculation, memes and widespread confusion.

Several users began linking Payal Gaming's name to the viral video without any official confirmation. As the clip circulated, fans and supporters stepped in to defend the gamer, pointing out inconsistencies in the footage and suggesting that it appeared to be an AI-generated deepfake.

After the controversy escalated, Payal Gaming addressed the matter on social media, firmly denying any association with the viral video. She clarified that the clip was fake and created using artificial intelligence technology, and warned that legal action was being initiated against those misusing her identity and spreading false content.

Based on Payal Dhare's complaint, the Maharashtra Cyber Police took cognisance of the viral video and registered a case. Following a technical investigation, the cyber police confirmed that the video was not authentic.

In an official note, the Maharashtra Cyber Police stated that a criminal offence has been registered vide FIR No. 52/2025 under Sections 3(5), 79 and 356(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, read with Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, 2000, and Sections 3 and 4 of the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986.

"The video was analysed using the technology available with the Maharashtra State Cyber Department. It is hereby certified that the aforesaid video has been tampered with and modified. The analysis confirms that the video is a deepfake created using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology," the note said, effectively clearing Payal Gaming's name.

The case adds to growing concerns around the misuse of AI tools to create deepfake content targeting public figures, particularly women, and the challenges authorities face in curbing such digital crimes.

Who is Payal Gaming?

Payal Dhare is among India's most popular female gamers and content creators. Originally from Chhattisgarh, she entered the gaming space in 2019 by streaming BGMI on YouTube. Her popularity surged after she joined S8UL Esports, gaining recognition both nationally and internationally. She has also won the title of Best Female Gamer.

Payal Gaming currently has over 4 million followers on Instagram, where she is active under the handle payalgamingg, and continues to be one of the most prominent faces in India's gaming and esports community.