Artificial intelligence is creating a new challenge for the Muslim world as deepfake technology is increasingly being used to impersonate well-known Islamic scholars and spread religious rulings they never issued. Experts warn that realistic AI-generated videos and audio clips are making it harder for the public to distinguish authentic guidance from fabricated content. As the technology becomes more accessible, concerns are growing over its impact on trust and religious authority. 

The issue gained significant attention after a deepfake video falsely showed renowned scholar Mufti Menk discussing the appearance of Imam Mahdi. In response, Menk publicly rejected the video and urged followers to verify any suspicious content through his official channels. Similar AI-generated materials have also featured other prominent scholars, including Zakir Naik, Nouman Ali Khan, and Yasir Qadhi, reaching large audiences before being challenged or removed. 

Researchers have found that coordinated networks have used AI-generated media to circulate misleading religious messages across social media platforms, messaging apps, and video-sharing services. Many of these clips spread rapidly because viewers often trust familiar faces and voices. By the time fact-checkers intervene, the content may already have reached millions of users. 

Scholars are particularly concerned about the creation of fake fatwas. In Islamic tradition, a fatwa is a legal ruling issued by a qualified scholar based on extensive knowledge and established principles of jurisprudence. When AI-generated content falsely attributes such rulings to respected religious figures, it can influence decisions related to worship, finance, family matters, and personal conduct. 

The problem is made more serious by the ease with which deepfakes can now be produced. Publicly available videos, lectures, and interviews provide enough material for AI systems to replicate a scholar’s appearance and voice with a high degree of accuracy. What once required advanced technical resources can now be achieved with relatively modest tools and expertise. 

Experts argue that stronger verification systems, greater digital literacy, and coordinated institutional responses are needed to address the threat. They encourage Muslims to confirm religious information through trusted sources and verified accounts before accepting or sharing it. As AI technology continues to advance, protecting the authenticity of religious guidance is becoming an increasingly urgent priority.