Veteran Kannada actor Doddanna files cyber complaint over fake death rumours

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Veteran Kannada actor Doddanna has filed a complaint with the North Division cyber crime police in Bengaluru against unidentified persons for spreading false reports of his death on social media.

The complaint comes after a social media account named “Public Friend” shared a post falsely claiming that the actor had passed away while offering condolences. The post quickly went viral, causing panic among his family members, fans and members of the film industry.

As rumours spread online, Doddanna was forced to appear before the media to clarify that he was alive and healthy. He urged the public not to believe unverified information circulating on social media platforms.

According to the complaint, the actor alleged that the misleading content had been edited and circulated using artificial intelligence (AI) tools, causing him severe mental distress and emotional trauma. He stated that the false reports had also deeply affected his family and well-wishers.

“This is not the first time such rumours have been spread about me. However, this time I have decided to seek legal action so that those responsible are held accountable,” the actor reportedly told the police.

The complaint was officially lodged on June 15, 2026. Based on the complaint, cyber police have registered a case under relevant provisions of the Information Technology Act and launched an investigation.

Police are now investigating to trace the IP address associated with the “Public Friend” account and identify those responsible for creating and circulating the fake death news.