Winning Bizness Desk

Mumbai. Google’s new AI tool, Nano Banana Pro, has quickly gained attention for its ability to generate highly realistic images. Initially celebrated for creating stylish portraits, LinkedIn infographics, and whiteboard summaries from complex texts, the platform has now been reported to produce fake Aadhaar and PAN cards. Users can input a photo, fake name, and ID numbers, and the model produces documents that look convincingly real, raising significant privacy and fraud concerns.

What Nano Banana Pro is and how it works

Nano Banana Pro is an upgraded version of Google’s Gemini Nano model, launched last week. It offers improved character consistency and can generate and edit 4K images. The tool integrates with Google Search, allowing users to create content that is visually sophisticated. Its popularity has surged on social media due to its ability to convert text-heavy content into AI-enhanced visual summaries. However, the model does not currently implement safety checks on sensitive content, including identity documents.

Creating fake Aadhaar and PAN cards with prompts

Investigations revealed that when prompts for generating fake Aadhaar and PAN cards were entered, Nano Banana Pro produced realistic images without any warnings. Generated images include Gemini watermarks and invisible SynthAI ID watermarks to signal authenticity differences, though these marks can be easily removed. When printed or shown quickly, the documents could appear genuine. A user reportedly uploaded their own photo with fake details, and the AI seamlessly integrated all information into the card. Safety concerns prevented sharing the exact prompts publicly.

Real-life tests and user experiences

• A Bangalore user created near-realistic Aadhaar and PAN cards using Nano Banana Pro.
• The images were shared on social media, demonstrating the high level of realism.
• Investigators found the AI perfectly aligned photos, names, birthdates, and ID numbers on the fake cards.
• While the tool blocked sexually suggestive or violent content, there were no restrictions on generating ID proofs.
• Previous AI models, including GPT-4o during the 'Gibli Moment,' also created fake IDs but with lower image quality.
• Experts note that Nano Banana Pro produces images multiple times more realistic than prior models.

Privacy and fraud risks associated with fake IDs

The ability to generate fake Aadhaar and PAN cards poses severe privacy and security threats. Such documents can be used for fraud, identity theft, or incorrect verifications. Removing the watermark and quickly printing the card could make it indistinguishable from a real document. In India, where Aadhaar and PAN are required for most services, the misuse potential is particularly high. No specific incidents have been officially reported yet, but experts warn that the risk of fraud is considerable. Google has not responded to these concerns.

Expert opinions and future implications

Experts warn that while Nano Banana Pro’s popularity is growing on social media, its unchecked ability to generate fake ID proofs is alarming. Questions have been raised about why Google’s safety teams have not prevented such basic misuse, despite the company being known for strict guidelines. In the future, AI platforms like this may need stronger filters for sensitive prompts. Indian authorities, including UIDAI, might issue guidelines to curb misuse. Users are advised to exercise caution when using AI tools to avoid potential legal and privacy risks.

Summary points

• Nano Banana Pro can now generate realistic fake Aadhaar and PAN cards.
• Users can add photos, names, and ID numbers that appear authentic.
• The AI includes removable watermarks to differentiate images.
• Popular on social media for creating stylish portraits and infographics.
• Previous AI models produced fake IDs but with lower image quality.
• Risk of identity theft and fraud is significant in India.
• sExperts suggest stronger AI filters and regulatory guidelines are needed.