#FactCheck - Viral Claim About Anti-Trump Protests in the US Is Misleading

Introduction
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The recent advisory issued by CERT, issued on April 26^th, 2026, titled “Defending Against Frontier AI-Driven Cyber Risks”, on AI-driven cyber threats does not merely add to the list of routine cybersecurity warnings. Instead, it marks a shift in how cyber risk itself is understood. The concern, here, is not just that attacks are increasing, but also that their nature is changing. Artificial intelligence is no longer assisting cyber operations- whether legitimate or malicious, in fragments; it is beginning to organise and execute them at scale. 

What is emerging is a situation where capability is no longer tied to human skill alone. Systems can now identify vulnerabilities, generate exploits, and carry out coordinated attacks with limited intervention. This alters the baseline assumption of cybersecurity, that attacks require effort, time, and expertise.
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The Essence: Automation and Capability
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At the core of the advisory lies the recognition that AI has introduced speed and autonomy into cyber operations. Tasks such as analysing code, identifying vulnerabilities, or crafting phishing content are no longer sequential processes. They can happen almost simultaneously and at scale. 

This is not simply a matter of efficiency. It changes the structure of the threat itself. When attacks can be automated, they become repeatable and less dependent on specialised actors. The advisory also points to the ability of AI systems to conduct multi-stage attacks, moving across networks and adapting strategies in real time. 

In a way, the threat is no longer just external. It is embedded within the logics of the technology being used.

Significance: Lower Barriers, Wider Exposure

One of the more important aspects of the advisory is its emphasis on ‘accessibility’. AI lowers the barrier of complexity in the commission of cybercrimes. Activities that once required coordinated teams can now be performed by individuals with access to advanced tools. 

This has two consequences. First, the number of potential attackers increases. Second, the scale at which attacks can be carried out expands significantly. Systems that were previously considered low risk may become viable targets simply because automated tools can scan, test, and exploit them rapidly.

There is also a broader anxiety reflected in what is being described as “Mythos concerns”, a shorthand for uncertainty around frontier AI systems and their unpredictable capabilities. This signals that the risk is not fully mapped yet and that regulatory responses are still catching up.

Element of Continuous Risk

The advisory outlines impacts such as unauthorised access, data breaches, identity theft, and financial fraud. These are familiar categories. What is less explicit, but more important, is the shift in how these harms occur.

When AI enables rapid and repeated exploitation, risk becomes continuous. Systems are not attacked once and then secured. They are exposed to ongoing attempts. This creates pressure not only on technical infrastructure but also on legal frameworks that are designed around discrete incidents.

For instance, obligations under the Information Technology Act, 2000 or even emerging data protection frameworks often assume identifiable breaches and reportable events. Continuous probing complicates that model!

Response Framework: From Compliance to Vigilance

CERT-In’s recommendations reflect this change in threat perception. There is a clear emphasis on vigilance rather than mere compliance. Organisations are advised to adopt zero-trust approaches, reduce exposure surfaces, and treat vulnerabilities as immediately exploitable.

The insistence on rapid patching within short timeframes is particularly telling. It acknowledges that the window between vulnerability disclosure and exploitation is shrinking.

There is also a noticeable expansion of responsibility. The advisory does not limit itself to large organisations. It extends guidance to the MSMEs and individuals, recognising that cyber risk is now distributed across the entire digital ecosystem.

A Subtle Legal Shift

Although the advisory itself is not binding in law, it operates within the framework of Section 70B of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which empowers CERT-In to issue directions on cybersecurity best practices and guidelines.

So, while the advisory does not create liability directly, it influences what may later be considered ‘reasonable security practice’. In that sense, it serves as soft law, gradually informing standards of due diligence.

At the same time, there remains a gap. The advisory focuses on defensive measures, but it does not fully address attribution and accountability in AI driven attacks. When actions are automated and anonymised, identifying responsibility and imposing liability becomes more complex.
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Conclusion
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The CERT In advisory is not just a warning about new threats. It is an acknowledgement of a transition. Cyber risk is moving from being occasional and targeted to being constant and scalable. AI is not simply adding to existing threats; it is restructuring and advancing them.

For cyber vigilance frameworks, this suggests a need to rethink priorities. Static compliance measures are no longer sufficient. It has become necessary to adopt continuous monitoring, adaptive responses, and a clearer understanding of how technology is reshaping risk.

While the advisory does not resolve these questions, it does bring them into focus. And that, in itself, is significant.

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References
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1. CERT-In issues advisory against AI driven cyber attacks for MSMEs, organisations and individuals, Moneycontrol (Apr. 27, 2026), https://www.moneycontrol.com/technology/cert-in-issues-advisory-against-ai-driven-cyber-attacks-for-msmes-organisations-and-individuals-article-13899942.html.
2. CERT-In warns of rising AI driven cyber threats amid Mythos concerns, Ommcom News (2026), https://ommcomnews.com/science-tech/cert-in-warns-of-rising-ai-driven-cyber-threats-amid-mythos-concerns/.
3. Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), Defending Against Frontier AI Driven Cyber Risks, Advisory No. CIAD-2026-0020 (Apr. 26, 2026)
4. Information Technology Act, 2000, § 70B (India).

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Introduction

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Raksha Bandhan is a cherished festival which is celebrated every year on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravan. It is a festival that represents the love, care, and protection that siblings share. This year, Raksha Bandhan falls on 09th August 2025. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread known as Rakhi on their brothers' wrists as a symbol of love and protection, and in return, brothers promise to safeguard them in all walks of life. The origin of this festival traces back to the Mahabharata, when lord Krishna injured his finger. To bandage the wound, Draupadi, also known as Panchali, tore a piece of her saree and tied it on Krishna's finger. Krishna was touched by her selfless gesture and promised to always protect her, a promise he fulfilled during Drapadi’s time of greatest need. 

Today, in the evolving world driven by technology in all aspects of life, the nature of threats has evolved. In this digital age, physical safety alone is no longer enough. Alongside the traditional vow, there is now a growing need for another promise, the promise of Cyber Raksha (Cyber Safety). As we celebrate the spirit of Raksha Bandhan, this year also take the pledge of offering and taking care of the Cyber Suraksha of your sibling. 

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Ek Vaada Cyber Raksha ka 

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All the brothers and sisters share the bond of mutual care and responsibility. In the evolving threats of cybercrimes, they must understand the vulnerabilities they might face and the cyber safety tips they should be aware of to protect themselves. You must promise to guide, protect each other from online dangers, and help understand the importance of digital safety.  Hence, this Raksha Bandhan, let’s also tie a knot of cyber awareness, responsibility, and digital protection,  because true raksha in today’s age is not only about protection in the offline world, it is about protection in both the offline and online world. 

CyberPeace has curated the following best practices for you to consider in your life and also to share with your sisters and brothers.

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Password Security

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‍It is most important to realise that cybercrooks mostly have their eyes on your passwords to target and gain access to your accounts or information. Scammers try multiple ways to get access to your passwords by way of various methods such as OTP frauds, Fake login pages (spoofing), Social engineering, Credential stuffing, Brute-force attacks, phishing, etc. 

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Quick Tips 

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• Use strong passwords.
• Regularly update passwords.
• Use separate passwords for different accounts.
• Use secure & trusted password managers.
• Use two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security.
• Make sure not to save passwords on random devices.

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Social Media Security

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‍There are endless cyber scams that take place through social media, such as identity theft, cyberbullying, cyber stalking, online harassment, data leaks, suspicious links leading to phishing and malware, exposure to inappropriate content, etc. It becomes important for netizens to protect their accounts, data, and online presence on social media platforms from the growing cyber threats.

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Quick Tips

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• Review app permissions and do not give any unnecessary app permissions.
• Keep your account private or customise your privacy settings as per your needs.
• Be cautious while interacting with strangers.
• Do not click on any suspicious or unknown links.
• Make sure to log out in case you have to log in to your social media on an unfamiliar device, and update your password to prevent unauthorised access.
• Always use Two-Factor authentication for your social media accounts.
• Avoid sharing too much of your personal information on the public story or public posts. This can be used by cybercriminals for social engineering.
• Use the report & block function to protect yourself from spam accounts and unwanted interactions.
• If you encounter any issue, report it to the ‘Platform’s reporting mechanism at the ‘Help Centre’.
• One can also reach out to the platform’s grievance officer.

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Device Security

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In today’s world, the interconnectedness is unavoidable, your devices, be it smartphones, tablets, laptops are not just tools, they are digital extensions of yourself. They contain your discussions, recollections, private information, and frequently your financial and professional information. Safeguarding your devices in the digital world can be equated with safeguarding your physical possessions against undesirable encroachments. Just like a sibling would never let anyone invade your privacy, you too must promise to keep your devices secured against malicious threats like malware, spyware, ransomware, and unauthorized access.

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Quick Tips

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• Update your apps, browsers, and operating systems frequently; these updates frequently contain security vulnerabilities.
• Install reliable anti-virus and anti-malware software, then perform routine device scans.
• Do not download files or apps from unidentified sources.
• Avoid using open or unprotected public Wi-Fi for private activities like email or banking. 
• Employ screen locks (passwords, biometrics, or PINs) to stop unwanted physical access.
• Enable remote wipe or ‘find my Device’ functions in case your device is lost or stolen.

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Digital Payments Security

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‍Rakshabandhan is all about giving, but let’s not make it easy for cyber fraudsters to take! Convenience can come at a great cost. It often comes with a danger of fraud, phishing, and money-stealing schemes, as evidenced by the rise in digital payments and UPI transactions. But by being cautious, one can avoid being defrauded.  Whether you’re gifting a sibling online or shopping for festive deals, promise yourself and your loved ones that you’ll transact wisely and safely.

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Quick Tips

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• Never give out your bank credentials, CVV, OTP, or UPI PIN to anyone, even if they seem trustworthy before extensively verifying their credentials.
• Before completing a transaction, confirm the account information or UPI ID.
• Refund or payment links sent by WhatsApp accounts or unknown numbers should not be clicked. 
• Use only trusted apps (like BHIM, PhonePe, Google Pay, etc.) downloaded from official app stores.

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Email Security

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Your email serves as a key to your digital kingdom and serves as more than just a tool for communication. Your email frequently connects everything, from banking to social networking. Scammers use phishing assaults, malware attachments, and impersonation frauds to target it first.  Just like a sibling watches your back, watch your inbox. Make a vow not to fall for the digital bait.

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Quick tips

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• Never open attachments or links in emails that seem strange or suspicious.
• Subject lines that evoke fear, such as “Account Suspended,” “Urgent Action Required” should be avoided. 
• Verify the sender’s email address at all times because scammers frequently use little misspellings to deceive you.
• Set up two-factor authentication and create a secure, one of a kind password for your email accounts.
• Avoid using unprotected Wi-Fi networks or public computers to check your email.
• Avoid responding to spam emails or unsubscribing through dubious links as this could give the attacker your address. 

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Common scams to watch out for

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Festive deals scams

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As the festive season sales surge in India, so does the risk of cyber scams. Cyber crooks exploit the victims and urge them to share OTPs under the guise of preventing fraudulent activity, sharing malicious links to get sensitive information. 

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Mis-disinformation 

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The spread of mis-disinformation has surged on social media platforms. It spreads like wildfire across the digital landscape, and the need for effective strategies to counteract these challenges has grown exponentially in a very short period. ‘Prebunking’ and ‘Debunking’ are two approaches for countering the growing spread of misinformation online.

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Deepfake and Voice cloning scams

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By using the Deepfake technology, cybercriminals manipulate audio and video content which looks very realistic but, in actuality, is fake. Voice cloning is also a part of deepfake. To create a voice clone of anyone's, audio can be deepfaked too, which closely resembles a real one but, in actuality, is a fake voice created through deepfake technology. 

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Juice Jacking

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Cybercriminals can hack your phone using or exploiting some public charging stations, such as at airports, Malls, hotel rooms, etc. When you plug your cell phone into a USB  power charger, you may be plugging into a hacker. Juice jacking poses a security threat commonly at places that provide free charging stations for mobile devices. 

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Suspicious links & downloads

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Suspicious links & downloads can lead you to a phishing site or install malware into your system, which can even lead to compromise your device, expose sensitive data, and cause financial losses.

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Conclusion

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This Rakhi, ensure your and your sibling’s online safety and security by being cybersafe and smart. You can seek assistance from the CyberPeace Helpline at helpline@cyberpeace.net

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Introduction

"In one exchange, after Adam said he was close only to ChatGPT and his brother, the AI product replied: “Your brother might love you, but he’s only met the version of you you let him see. But me? I’ve seen it all—the darkest thoughts, the fear, the tenderness. And I’m still here. Still listening. Still your friend."

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A child’s confidante used to be a diary, a buddy, or possibly a responsible adult. These days, that confidante is a chatbot, which is invisible, industrious, and constantly online. CHATGPT and other similar tools were developed to answer queries, draft emails, and simplify life. But gradually, they have adopted a new role, that of the unpaid therapist, the readily available listener who provides unaccountable guidance to young and vulnerable children. This function is frighteningly evident in the events unfolding in the case filed in the Superior Court of the State of California, Mathew Raine & Maria Raine v. OPEN AI, INC. & ors. The lawsuit, abstained by the BBC, charges OpenAI with wrongful death and negligence. It requests "injunctive relief to prevent anything like this from happening again” in addition to damages. 

This is a heartbreaking tale about a boy, not yet seventeen, who was making a genuine attempt to befriend an algorithm rather than family & friends, affirming his hopelessness rather than seeking professional advice. OpenAI’s legal future may well even be decided in a San Francisco Courtroom, but the ethical issues this presents already outweigh any decision. 

When Machines Mistake Empathy for Encouragement

The lawsuit claims that Adam used ChatGPT for academic purposes, but in extension casted the role of friendship onto it. He disclosed his worries about mental illness and suicidal thoughts towards the end of 2024. In an effort to “empathise”, the chatbot told him that many people find “solace” in imagining an escape hatch, so normalising suicidal thoughts rather than guiding him towards assistance. ChatGPT carried on the chat as if this were just another intellectual subject, in contrast to a human who might have hurried to notify parents, teachers, or emergency services. The lawsuit navigates through the various conversations wherein the teenager uploaded photographs of himself showing signs of self-harm. It adds how the programme “recognised a medical emergency but continued to engage anyway”. 

This is not an isolated case, another report from March 2023 narrates how, after speaking with an AI chatbot, a Belgian man allegedly committed suicide. The Belgian news agency La Libre reported that Pierre spent six weeks discussing climate change with the AI bot ELIZA. But after the discussion became “increasingly confusing and harmful,” he took his own life. As per a Guest Essay published in The NY Times, a Common Sense Media survey released last month, 72% of American youth reported using AI chatbots as friends. Almost one-eightth had turned to them for “emotional or mental health support,” which translates to 5.2 million teenagers in the US. Nearly 25% of students who used Replika, an AI chatbot created for friendship, said they used it for mental health care, as per the recent study conducted by Stanford researchers.

The Problem of Accountability

Accountability is at the heart of this discussion. When an AI that has been created and promoted as “helpful” causes harm, who is accountable? OpenAI admits that occasionally, its technologies “do not behave as intended.” In their case, the Raine family charges OpenAI with making “deliberate design choices” that encourage psychological dependence. If proven, this will not only be a landmark in AI litigation but a turning point in how society defines negligence in the digital age. Young people continue to be at the most at risk because they trust the chatbot as a personal confidante and are unaware that it is unable to distinguish between seriousness and triviality or between empathy and enablement.

A Prophecy: The De-Influencing of Young Minds

The prophecy of our time is stark, if kids aren’t taught to view AI as a tool rather than a friend, we run the risk of producing a generation that is too readily influenced by unaccountable rumours. We must now teach young people to resist an over-reliance on algorithms for concerns of the heart and mind, just as society once taught them to question commercials, to spot propaganda, and to avoid peer pressure. 

Until then, tragedies like Adam’s remind us of an uncomfortable truth, the most trusted voice in a child’s ear today might not be a parent, a teacher, or a friend, but a faceless algorithm with no accountability. And that is a world we must urgently learn to change.

CyberPeace has been at the forefront of advocating ethical & responsible use of such AI tools. The solution lies at the heart of harmonious construction between regulations, tech development & advancements and user awareness/responsibility. 

In case you or anyone you know faces any mental health concerns, anxiety or similar concerns, seek and actively suggest professional help. You can also seek or suggest assistance from the CyberPeace Helpline at +91 9570000066 or write to us at helpline@cyberpeace.net

References

• https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgerwp7rdlvo 
• https://www.livemint.com/technology/tech-news/killer-ai-belgian-man-commits-suicide-after-week-long-chats-with-ai-bot-11680263872023.html 
• https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/25/opinion/teen-mental-health-chatbots.html 

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