BCI issues digital ethics framework, bans AI deepfakes and misleading legal content

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has issued a nationwide digital ethics framework regulating how advocates, law students, interns and legal influencers use social media and AI tools. The circular treats the legal profession as an institution tied to the administration of justice rather than a trade, and lays out rules on AI-generated content, deepfakes and misleading legal advertising.

AI and deepfake restrictions

The framework prohibits creating, uploading, circulating or monetising AI-generated images, deepfake videos, voice-cloned audio, manipulated screenshots, synthetic avatars or other fabricated content depicting judges, courts, advocates, litigants or court proceedings. Where AI tools are materially used to generate or substantially modify legal content — images, videos, voiceovers, posters, captions or legal summaries — advocates are required to disclose that use.

Misleading legal advertising

The BCI also warned against misleading claims such as “Guaranteed Bail,” “Instant Divorce” or “Sure Acquittal” and other promises of legal outcomes, which it considers a breach of professional ethics.

Implementation

State Bar Councils, Bar Associations and law colleges have been directed to set up monitoring systems, form Digital Ethics Committees, and ensure advocates, students and interns are made aware of the new rules. An undertaking to abide by the framework is now required at enrolment.

Source: Mid-Day.