Deepfake Alert: Sachin Tendulkar's Warning Against Technology Misuse

Executive Summary

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Recent claims circulating on social media allege that an Indian Air Force MiG-29 fighter jet was shot down by Pakistani forces during "Operation Sindoor." These reports suggest the incident involved a jet crash attributed to hostile action. However, these assertions have been officially refuted. No credible evidence supports the existence of such an operation or the downing of an Indian aircraft as described. The Indian Air Force has not confirmed any such event, and the claim appears to be misinformation.

Claim

A social media rumor has been circulating, suggesting that an Indian Air Force MiG-29 fighter jet was shot down by Pakistani Air forces during "Operation Sindoor." The claim is accompanied by images purported to show the wreckage of the aircraft.

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Fact Check

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The social media posts have falsely claimed that a Pakistani Air Force shot down an Indian Air Force MiG-29 during "Operation Sindoor." This claim has been confirmed to be untrue. The image being circulated is not related to any recent IAF operations and has been previously used in unrelated contexts. The content being shared is misleading and does not reflect any verified incident involving the Indian Air Force.

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After conducting research by extracting key frames from the video and performing reverse image searches, we successfully traced the original post, which was first published in 2024, and can be seen in a news article from The Hindu and Times of India. 

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A MiG-29 fighter jet of the Indian Air Force (IAF), engaged in a routine training mission, crashed near Barmer, Rajasthan, on Monday evening (September 2, 2024). Fortunately, the pilot safely ejected and escaped unscathed, hence the claim is false and an act to spread misinformation.

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Conclusion

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The claims regarding the downing of an Indian Air Force MiG-29 during "Operation Sindoor" are unfounded and lack any credible verification. The image being circulated is outdated and unrelated to current IAF operations. There has been no official confirmation of such an incident, and the narrative appears to be misleading. Peoples are advised to rely on verified sources for accurate information regarding defence matters.

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• Claim: Pakistan Shot down an Indian Fighter Jet, MIG-29
• Claimed On:  Social Media
• Fact Check: False and Misleading 

Introduction

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The way we interact, go about our daily lives and manage our financial resources has completely changed in this digital age. Tasks that were earlier done manually (and were extremely time-consuming) now happen in just minutes and seconds. As this convenience expands, so do the risks that come with it. The proliferation of digital technology has opened up a wide arena where we, as users, are getting exposed to a complex environment of emerging cyber threats at every step. This has become especially true for our senior citizens, who face heightened vulnerabilities owing to their age and situational factors. Therefore, getting an understanding of these risks and knowing how to respond to them is no longer optional.

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Cybercrime against senior citizens is rising every year. The elderly today are using and depending on smartphones, net banking, UPI (Unified Payments Interface) and social media more than ever. Scammers are preying on this circumstance and perpetrating well-planned cyber attacks on the senior population. A 2024 report from the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that analysed cybercrime data for the year 2023 found that older adults lost more money per incident as opposed to the younger population. 

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This blog aims at providing practical and easy-to-follow cyber safety tips for senior citizens and a clear action plan on how to respond if they ever fall victim to a scam.

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Safe and Smart Browsing for the Elderly: Essential Cybersecurity Tips

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1. Device safety: Cybersecurity can be ensured with one simple rule, which is securing your device first. This is the first line of defence against cybercrime and can go a long way in preventing online attacks and scams. This device security can be established by using screen locks such as setting up a PIN, lock patterns, fingerprints, or even applying the face lock feature on smartphones and tablets. 

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The next step is to install a reputable antivirus on your device (such as laptops and desktops) and keep updating it from time to time. Enabling additional security features in your devices, such as ‘automatic updates’, further ensures that the phone’s Operating System (OS) and the Applications (apps) remain up to date. This guarantees that the device’s OS and the apps are fully upgraded to catch and fix any new security threats. Users should also beware of any unauthorised software. Suspicious links or messages that offer free software or updates should be avoided at all costs. 

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The Government of India’s 2024 cyber safety booklet also stresses the importance of keeping devices and apps equipped with the latest security patches to prevent exploitation of any known vulnerabilities. 

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2. Robust Passwords and 2FA: Weak passwords are one of the easiest entry points for cybercriminals. This is why it is crucial to have strong and robust passwords to keep accounts and devices absolutely secure. It is also important to make sure to avoid using very basic PINs, such as date of birth or predictable ascending digits such as ‘12345’. Also, similar passwords should not be used across various bank, email or social media accounts. While creating a strong password, ideally, one should use a combination of upper case and lower case letters along with mixed digits and special characters. If need be, one can jot down these complex passwords in a separate physical diary to keep a record and refer to it in case of forgetfulness. 

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Enabling two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection. Whenever and wherever possible, users should enable OTP (one-time password) based verification or app-based authentication codes. In case someone does end up stealing the user’s password, they would still need the second factor to log in.

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The Government of India supported the Information Security Education and Awareness (ISEA) initiative, which also provides guidelines that recommend the use of passwords and secure authentication as key cyber safety practices for senior citizens.

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3. Handle messages with caution: Most cybercrime instances against senior citizens are initiated with a phone call, an SMS or a WhatsApp message. Personal details such as OTPs, CVV (3-digit number on the back of a debit/credit card), ATM or UPI PIN, full debit/credit card number, net banking ID and password, etc., should never be shared over a call or a chat. Also, people need to be aware of the fact that genuine officials will never make any demands for such details over calls or messages. ISEA has specifically warned about frauds like phishing, where fraudsters call or message their victims pretending to be from banks, courier companies, telecom operators or from the government to trick seniors into revealing their personal details.

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A caller might say ‘Your KYC can get blocked, give OTP now’ or ‘Your card will get deactivated, click this link’. Hang up immediately! Do not click any links, do not share any number and do not install any app that they suggest (eg. remote access apps).

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4. Banking without worries: Online banking is truly a boon, especially for senior citizens. It eliminates the need to visit the bank in person for every small requirement. But this comfort and ease can serve us well only if we use it with a certain sense of vigilance and responsibility. 

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Users are advised to use only official banking apps that are downloaded from Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. It is also prudent to activate SMS or email alerts for all online transactions so that the user receives timely notifications of any withdrawal or transfer. Users should also avoid using public Wi-Fi connections for banking or UPI payments. It is better  to use your own mobile data or a home Wi-Fi with a strong password. This safeguards your financial transactions. India has a system in place called the Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS) that quickly responds to online financial fraud, especially with regards to UPI and net banking frauds.

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5. Think before you share: Beyond online banking and other essential activities on the web, lies the world of social media which has seamlessly woven itself into our daily routines. Therefore, gaining awareness about the safe usage of social media is extremely important. For starters, users should keep the privacy settings of their social media accounts as ‘Private’. They should also be mindful of accepting friend requests from strangers or unknown profiles, even if they claim that they know the user. Users must also avoid ‘oversharing’ on public platforms and social media accounts. It is always best to refrain from posting about personal details on social media such as finances, travel schedules or addresses. If a user receives urgent messages from a close friend or a relative asking for money, then it is better to first call them up directly to verify that the request is genuine. 

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The older generation should also be wary of fraudsters who, under false identities, build emotional relationships online and then start demanding money, gifts or even private photos from their victims. 

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6. Stay a step ahead: Lastly, senior users can stay a step ahead in this game by familiarising themselves with the typical scams that are targeted towards their age group. This know-how will prepare them to identify scam patterns and early warning signs. Discussing experiences or sharing knowledge with family members or peers can also help seniors bridge the gap between awareness and action.

Fallen for a scam? Don’t panic! Here’s what seniors should do next: An action plan for recovery and protection

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We are all human at the end of the day. Anyone can fall for a scam, even the most careful people. The important thing is how to ‘respond’ after getting scammed. As per the 2023 Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) Elder Fraud Report, prompt reporting after a scam can improve the chances of either freezing or retrieving the stolen money. If you have fallen for a scam, here is what you should do:

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1. Keep calm and disconnect: Though it may feel challenging, but the first instinct that victims should display is to keep their calm and hang up the phone. The victim should then block the number and refrain from responding to any further emails or messages. Any remote access app, screen sharing app or a support tool that were installed at the request of the caller, should be instantly uninstalled.

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2. Alert your bank right away: Time is of the essence when it comes to online financial frauds. If a user has been scammed and he is aware of it, then he should immediately call the official customer care number of his bank. It is to be noted here that this number should be verified from the bank’s website or from the user’s credit/debit card. Once the user is connected to the bank’s support staff, he should inform them clearly that he has been a victim of an online fraud. The support staff may guide the user regarding the options that he can undertake. These can be: blocking the cards, freezing the account or an attempt from the bank’s interface to try and stop or recall the recent transaction. 

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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has laid down certain guidelines on unauthorised electronic banking transactions that encourage quick reporting and provide a steady framework for customer liability. Also, if in case a victim feels that the bank’s response has been unsatisfactory, the complaints can be further escalated to the RBI Ombudsman.

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3. Reset online credentials: Once the victim has spoken to the bank and taken all necessary steps in that regard, the next step is to reset the passwords. Passwords for netbanking, UPI apps, email accounts, social media, shopping platforms, etc., should all be changed. The victim can also turn on two factor authentication for all important accounts. Incase some critical information like PAN (Permanent Account Number) or Aadhar or SSN (Social Security Number ) has been shared, the victim should be on the lookout for any identity theft in the form of unknown loans, new cards or credit enquiries. 

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4. Notify official cybercrime portals or authorities: The next step is to inform the relevant cybercrime authorities in your region. In India there is a government backed National Cyber Crime Helpline which is a part of the Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System. The aim of the helpline is to prevent further losses in digital payment frauds. Victims can also file a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting portal. Other than these options, the victim can visit the nearest police station along with copies of their online complaint, bank statements, transaction receipts and ID proofs. 

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In the US, such complaints can be lodged with the IC3 which runs a specialised elder fraud program. The IC3 also publishes the annual Elder Fraud Report and lays down latest guidelines and trends regarding cybercrime.

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5. Preserve proofs of the scam: The IC3’s 2023 report notes that detailed and prompt reporting by the victim enables law enforcement and financial institutions to deploy ‘Financial Fraud Kill Chain’ procedures that help in tracing or freezing stolen funds. This is why it is very important to preserve the evidence of a cyber scam. Proper documentation can help banks and law enforcement agencies to properly investigate a case. If possible, the victim should save all messages, WhatsApp chats, emails, screenshots and voice recordings. Establishing a clear timeline of the events also helps. Minute details such as: when the first call was received, what was said and when the money exited the victim’s account, significantly help in piecing together the full picture. Victims should also keep a record of all bank statements and transaction alert messages related to the fraudulent activity. 

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6. Helping seniors heal: Apart from monetary damage, the emotional impact of a scam should also be acknowledged. Getting scammed can be deeply humiliating for senior citizens, especially at their age where everyday life may already feel quite overwhelming. Also, when it comes to their lifelong savings, the ramifications of becoming a victim of an online financial scam can be quite distressing for seniors. The US Department of Justice’s elder fraud content emphasises on the fact that senior victims need ample emotional support and should not be blamed or shamed for their predicament.

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Families and caregivers can guide the elderly victims step by step through the recovery process which includes taking the necessary technical steps, filling out forms and following up with banks or authorities. For large value frauds, repeated targeting or cases that involve identity theft, getting a legal consult for the victim is highly advisable. This kind of support and reassurance can help seniors reduce their anxiety and regain their inner strength.

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Secure today, safe tomorrow

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The rate of cybercrime against senior citizens isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. Scammers are refining their techniques every day. Therefore, the best long standing defence against cybercrime is to make cyber safety a regular habit. This can be achieved with the support of families, caregivers and communities. Beyond the practical steps, spreading awareness and maintaining an open dialogue is equally important. Senior citizens should feel comfortable asking questions, sharing concerns and continue learning from experiences, be it theirs or of others. Reinforcement of safe online practices should become ingrained at the core of every society. When cybersecurity practices merge with everyday life, seniors gain both protection and confidence. Simple and steady digital safety practices that come with guidance and reassurance empower the seniors to enjoy the benefits of technology without fear.

Simply put, the habits that are adopted today will lay the foundation for a secure and safer digital tomorrow.

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References  

• https://bankingjournal.aba.com/2024/11/ftc-older-adults-lost-up-to-61-5b-to-fraud-in-2023/
• https://www.cert-in.org.in/PDF/CSH_Booklet.pdf
• https://infosecawareness.in/concept/cyber-security-tips-for-senior-citizens
• https://cybercrime.gov.in/UploadMedia/instructions_citizenreportingcyberfrauds.pdf
• https://www.ic3.gov/annualreport/reports/2023_ic3elderfraudreport.pdf
• https://www.arklegal.in/post/how-to-report-cyber-crime-in-india
• https://www.pib.gov.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1814120
• https://cybercrime.gov.in/Webform/crmcondi.aspx
• https://www.justice.gov/archives/stopfraud-archive/elder-fraud-and-financial-exploitation
• https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/federal-trade-commission-protecting-older-adults-report_102024.pdf
• https://www.unionbankofindia.bank.in/pdf/cyber-security-customer-awareness-guide-vol-v.pdf
• https://cdnbbsr.s3waas.gov.in/s371e09b16e21f7b6919bbfc43f6a5b2f0/uploads/2024/11/20241111752149945.pdf
• https://www.dsci.in/files/content/documents/2024/CSAM24-Infographic_Cyber-Safety-Essentials-for-Senior-Citizens-v1.pdf

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Introduction 

The pervasive issue of misinformation in India is a multifaceted challenge with profound implications for democratic processes, public awareness, and social harmony. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken measures to counter misinformation during the 2024 elections. ECI has launched campaigns to educate people and urge them to verify election-related content and share responsibly on social media. In response to the proliferation of fake news and misinformation online, the ECI has introduced initiatives such as ‘Myth vs. Reality’ and  'VerifyBeforeYouAmplify' to clear the air around fake news being spread on social media. EC measures aim to ensure that the spread of misinformation is curbed, especially during election time, when voters consume a lot of information from social media. It is of the utmost importance that voters take in facts and reliable information and avoid any manipulative or fake information that can negatively impact the election process. 

EC Collaboration with Tech Platforms

In this new age of technology, the Internet and social media continue to witness a surge in the spread of misinformation, disinformation, synthetic media content, and deepfake videos. This has rightly raised serious concerns. The responsible use of social media is instrumental in maintaining the accuracy of information and curbing misinformation incidents. 

The ECI has collaborated with Google to empower the citizenry by making it easy to find critical voting information on Google Search and YouTube. In this way, Google supports the 2024 Indian General Election by providing high-quality information to voters, safeguarding platforms from abuse, and helping people navigate AI-generated content. The company connects voters to helpful information through product features that show data from trusted organisations across its portfolio. YouTube showcases election information panels, including how to register to vote, how to vote, and candidate information. YouTube's recommendation system prominently features content from authority sources on the homepage, in search results, and in the "Up Next" panel. YouTube highlights high-quality content from authoritative news sources during key moments through its Top News and Breaking News shelves, as well as the news watch page. 

Google has also implemented strict policies and restrictions regarding who can run election-related advertising campaigns on its platforms. They require all advertisers who wish to run election ads to undergo an identity verification process, provide a pre-certificate issued by the ECI or anyone authorised by the ECI for each election ad they want to run where necessary, and have in-ad disclosures that clearly show who paid for the ad. Additionally, they have long-standing ad policies that prohibit ads from promoting demonstrably false claims that could undermine trust or participation in elections.

CyberPeace Countering Misinformation

CyberPeace Foundation, a leading organisation in the field of cybersecurity works to promote digital peace for all. CyberPeace is working on the wider ecosystem to counter misinformation and develop a safer and more responsible Internet. CyberPeace has collaborated with Google.org to run a pan-India awareness-building program and comprehensive multilingual digital resource hub with content available in up to 15 Indian languages to empower over 40 million netizens in building resilience against misinformation and practising responsible online behaviour. This step is crucial in creating a strong foundation for a trustworthy  Internet and secure digital landscape.  

Myth vs Reality Register by ECI

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has launched the 'Myth vs Reality Register' to combat misinformation and ensure the integrity of the electoral process during the general elections 2024. The 'Myth vs Reality Register' can be accessed through the Election Commission's official website (https://mythvsreality.eci.gov.in/). All stakeholders are urged to verify and corroborate any dubious information they receive through any channel with the information provided in the register. The register provides a one-stop platform for credible and authenticated election-related information, with the factual matrix regularly updated to include the latest busted fakes and fresh FAQs. The ECI has identified misinformation as one of the challenges, along with money, muscle, and Model Code of Conduct violations, for electoral integrity. The platform can be used to verify information, prevent the spread of misinformation, debunk myths, and stay informed about key issues during the General Elections 2024.

The ECI has taken proactive steps to combat the challenge of misinformation which could cripple the democratic process. EC has issued directives urging vigilance and responsibility from all stakeholders, including political parties, to verify information before amplifying it. The EC has also urged responsible behaviour on social media platforms and discourse that inspires unity rather than division. The commission has stated that originators of false information will face severe consequences, and nodal officers across states will remove unlawful content. Parties are encouraged to engage in issue-based campaigning and refrain from disseminating unverified or misleading advertisements.

Conclusion

The steps taken by the ECI have been designed to empower citizens and help them affirm the accuracy and authenticity of content before amplifying it. All citizens must be well-educated about the entire election process in India. This includes information on how the electoral rolls are made, how candidates are monitored, a complete database of candidates and candidate backgrounds, party manifestos, etc. For informed decision-making, active reading and seeking information from authentic sources is imperative. The partnership between government agencies, tech platforms and civil societies helps develop strategies to counter the widespread misinformation and promote online safety in general, and electoral integrity in particular. 

References 

• https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2017375

• https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2016941#:~:text=To%20combat%20the%20spread%20of,the%20ongoing%20General%20Elections%202024
• https://www.business-standard.com/elections/lok-sabha-election/ls-elections-2024-ec-uses-social-media-to-nudge-electors-to-vote-124040700429_1.html
• https://blog.google/intl/en-in/company-news/outreach-initiatives/supporting-the-2024-indian-general-election/
• https://blog.google/intl/en-in/partnering-indias-success-in-a-new-digital-paradigm/

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