AI-GENERATED FORGED DOCUMENTS: THE ROLE OF FORENSIC EVIDENCE AND LEGAL CHALLENGES IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI, has transformed the creation, manipulation and dissemination of digital documents and simultaneously created new challenges for the legal regulation of forged and synthetic documents in Pakistan. This study critically examines the existing legal framework governing AI-generated forged documents, with particular focus on the Pakistan Penal Code 1860, Electronic Transactions Ordinance 2002, Qanun-e-Shahadat Order 1984 and Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016. The study explores how existing laws may apply to AI-assisted forgery while identifying gaps relating to attribution, authenticity, admissibility, reliability and evidentiary weight of AI-generated material. It further examines the role of digital and forensic evidence, including metadata, file structures, timestamps, digital signatures, device information, editing histories, chain of custody and expert testimony, in establishing the origin and integrity of questioned documents. The study finds that although existing legislation can address several forms of unlawful conduct involving forged electronic documents, Pakistan lacks a comprehensive and coordinated framework specifically addressing the distinctive challenges created by generative AI. Particular difficulties arise in identifying the person responsible for AI-generated material, assessing the reliability of AI-detection technologies, preserving digital evidence and ensuring consistent judicial treatment. The study therefore emphasises the need for technology-neutral legal provisions, strengthened digital-forensic infrastructure, clear authentication standards, specialised training for judges, prosecutors and investigators, improved chain-of-custody procedures, greater reliance on corroborative forensic evidence and enhanced international cooperation. It concludes that an effective legal response should balance technological development with the protection of authenticity, evidentiary integrity, privacy, due process and fair-trial rights.