Perception of Deepfakes among Bangladeshi Women

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Authors: Sharifa Sultana, Pratyasha Saha, Nadira Nowsher, Sumaia Arefin Ritu, Zinnat Sultana, Syed Ishtiaque Ahmed, S M Taiabul Haque

Published: 2026-01-19 10:38:30+00:00

AI Summary

This study investigates how Bangladeshi women perceive deepfakes and the socio-cultural factors that influence their awareness, concerns, and responses to this technology. Drawing on 15 semi-structured interviews, the research uncovers how cultural values, gendered norms, trust in institutions, and digital harassment shape their perceptions and coping mechanisms. The findings aim to inform the design of culturally sensitive interventions, educational initiatives, and policy frameworks for addressing deepfake challenges in the Global South.

Abstract

As deepfake technology becomes more accessible, concerns about its misuse and societal impact are escalating, particularly in regions like the Global South where digital literacy and regulatory measures are often limited. While previous research has explored deepfakes in contexts such as detection and media manipulation, there is a noticeable gap in understanding how individuals in these regions perceive and interact with deepfake media. This study addresses this gap by investigating how Bangladeshi women perceive deepfakes and the socio-cultural factors influencing their awareness, concerns, and responses to this technology. Drawing on 15 semi-structured interviews, we uncover how cultural values, gendered norms, trust in institutions, and the prevalence of digital harassment shape their perceptions and coping mechanisms. Through this research, we aim to advance existing scholarship in HCI by offering insights into the design of culturally sensitive interventions, educational initiatives, and policy frameworks to address the challenges posed by deepfakes in the Global South.

Key findings

Participants overwhelmingly perceived deepfakes as dangerous tools for harassment, rather than entertainment, fearing rapid circulation and acceptance of manipulated content as credible evidence. Gendered reputational norms intensified harm, often leading to blame and social judgment for women, while legal recourse was seen as inaccessible or risky, promoting silence over reporting. These findings underscore that deepfake harm is a sociotechnical problem, amplified by cultural values and institutional limitations, rather than solely a technical deception issue.

Approach

The researchers employed a qualitative research approach, conducting 15 semi-structured interviews with Bangladeshi women aged 18-45 from diverse backgrounds. Data were collected in Bengali, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and subsequently analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns in perception, fear, and coping strategies.

Datasets

The study utilized data gathered from 15 semi-structured interviews with Bangladeshi women aged 18-45. These interviews, conducted in Bengali and audio-recorded, constitute the primary dataset.

Model(s)

UNKNOWN

Author countries

USA, Bangladesh, Canada

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