#FactCheck - Viral Clip and Newspaper Article Claiming 18% GST on 'Good Morning' Messages Debunked

Introduction

It might seem too good to be true: free movies, live TV and sports without any subscription plan are deals that no one in India could actually refuse, and that’s precisely the explanation as to why applications such as Pikashow have gained tremendous traction in India and all over the world as well. However, cybersecurity authorities have a strong cause of concern: the threat that this type of application poses towards lakhs of Indians with malicious software, stealing information and even money. Pikashow may be a perfect case study to establish this problem, but in fact, it all ties down to how downloading anything without the recognised applications has certain risks attached to it.

The Pikashow Warning

With no monthly subscription fees, Pikashow is a popular free app for streaming movies, web series, live TV channels and sports programmes. Since its development, Pikashow has had a reputation for never being found on the Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store, which necessitates a process of side-loading. A side load, in this case, entails downloading the Pikashow APK file from an unofficial third-party source and manually installing the app, circumventing the security measures of official download channels.

The latter is significant because security experts who have analysed Pikashow argue that it acts as an informal content aggregator; movies and TV series are illegally scooped up from online streaming services, then shared via various third-party links and streamed without a content licence or any agreement with legitimate providers.

Without going through the rigorous checks conducted by Google or Apple, security researchers discovered that even while the app appeared to be working fine with its promised streams, hidden malware within the installer can run silently, leading to potentially significant security risks such as data theft of user logins, one-time passwords, and private files, including banking credentials. This has been cited to be so problematic for India that law enforcement agencies like the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre under the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Cyber Dost platform are expected to have issued public advisories linking Pikashow to a proliferation of cases of cybercrime. Users should take into account the legal implications alongside security concerns, as using piracy apps may not only lead to device-compromising issues but can also be against the Copyright Act of India as well, thus increasing the risk of legal prosecution.

Why This Isn't Just a "Pikashow Problem"

This should not be viewed as a single warning concerning one app. Pikashow is merely an illustration of one app from millions that exists outside official app stores and is built with the same mechanics that make Pikashow dangerous and applicable to virtually any app, game, or "modded" file which is downloaded from a random website, third-party app store, or Telegram channel.
Some issues that persist are- 

1. Official app stores are like a filter that is not perfect, but it is still critical to the security on a user's device. Both Google and Apple's App stores run automatic and manual malware scanners, screen permissions for legitimate use, and have the ability to remove malicious developers as necessary. Empirical research has estimated just how important this is: more than fifty-times more malware exists on sideloaded, "unofficial" apps versus official. Mobile security firm Zimperium claims nearly 40% of all devices tested with malware were infected due to downloading an app from outside the official app stores; furthermore, nearly 80% of malicious, sideloaded apps contained riskware or trojans.
2. Informational channels can also be used to gain the trust of users by mimicking familiar brands One frequently mentioned scheme is one where malicious actors repackage popular apps with a malignant intent to syphon the app, disguised as a free, trustworthy app. Often when these apps are available, they work exactly the same as the legitimate app, as a matter of fact, but quietly in the background steal passwords or log keystrokes; this was discovered to be occurring with a financial trojan called TeaBot, where bank details and login info were intercepted through the device's Accessibility Service.
3. There is generally no recourse or legal liability that applies once something has gone wrong. While official app stores are official developers that can be identified to submit complaints against them, if a third-party download leads to damages, that developer generally cannot be located to establish liability or legal standing.
4. Excessive app permissions will often go undetected This occurs for the similar reasons that a malicious actor can include such a clause as explained above. There's really nothing to stop the developer from asking to utilise one's SMS, call log, camera, microphone, storage or location when there's not one reason for one application to need access to everything on the device.
5. Expired software has the same or more risk It's actually very common to see apps that receive security updates out in the wild that either don't have the appropriate update sent over to third-party app stores or third-party stores don't have the capacity to update the affected applications. That's why most official third-party app downloads should be of fairly new versions; for example, outdated versions of a banking app, which is being patched as well as receiving other updates from Google or Apple still, will continue to persist on third-party download sites for some time after patching, which could then be malicious.
6. Even legitimate, globally recognised apps can and have been compromised The same vulnerability was noted for TikTok in 2023, which, when found on unofficial APK download sites, contained hidden data-tracking malware yet looked identical to the official app version.

How to Protect Yourself

The reassuring thing is that the vast majority of this risk can be eliminated through simple, repeatable habits. Use trusted sources like Google Play and Apple's App Store, which are not faultless, of course, but they remove many infected apps from circulation following review.

1. Be sceptical of "free" premium-paid apps.
2. If something in a file from a site you don't recognise offers content or features that are normally behind a paywall and they want nothing to do with it, that is a bad sign, not a good deal. Review app permissions when you go to install anything. A flashlight doesn't need access to your SMS messages or contacts, as one recently downloaded on a colleague's Android allegedly attempted to acquire them from the Google Play store. After sideloading any app that you do not fully trust, it's always a wise idea to uninstall it and scan the handset to ensure malicious files aren't still lingering around.
3. Choose legitimate services to avoid malware.
4. In entertainment terms this will apply most clearly to piracy but applies similarly elsewhere in many senses. Trusted sources that are licensed include YouTube, JioCinema, Hotstar, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and MX Player, among others, which will offer content similar to illegally acquired or pirated versions without the security, as well as the legal risks. If you have recently used the file installation route to any degree of caution on a sensitive device, then also monitor banking and payment apps.
5. That is not least because the most reported consequence of infection from an illicit or unknown source is the theft of financial account login details.

Conclusion

Free entertainment can look tempting, but as cybersecurity experts keep pointing out, "free" often just means the cost has been shifted from your wallet to your data, your device, and potentially your bank account. The safest rule of thumb remains simple: if an app isn't on an official store, ask why and think twice before installing it.

Sources

• Pikashow app risky, may expose users to malware and data theft: Experts — Times of India
• Free OTT Hack or Cyber Trap? Pikashow Flagged for Serious Security Risks — The420.in
• Pikashow Warning: Free Movies Could Empty Your Bank Account, Government Issues Strong Alert — The420.in
• Is Pikashow Safe or Risky to Use in 2025? Expert's Advice — AiPlex AntiPiracy
• Why Pikashow May Not Be Safe for Your Device — AiPlex AntiPiracy
• Concerns Rise Over the Safety of Popular Streaming App Pikashow — openPR
• Beyond the App Store: The Hidden Risks of Sideloading Apps — Zimperium
• App Sideloading: Risks, Rules, and How IT Admins Respond — Trio
• What Are the Risks of Sideloading Apps on Your Smartphone? — Bitdefender
• Sideloading Risk: Alternative App Stores and Brand Protection — Allure Security
• Building a Trusted Ecosystem for Millions of Apps: A Threat Analysis of Sideloading — Apple

‍

Executive Summary

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East following attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel, a video is being shared on social media claiming that it shows a recent attack at Dubai International Airport. Research by the CyberPeace found the viral claim to be false. Our research revealed that the viral video is not real but has been created using artificial intelligence technology.

‍

Claim:

‍

An Instagram user shared the viral video on March 1, 2026, claiming it shows an attack at Dubai Airport. The link to the post, the archive link, and a screenshot are provided below.

• https://www.instagram.com/reels/DVWDuukiH-2/ 
• https://archive.ph/OetwK 

‍

‍

‍

Fact Check:

‍

To verify the viral claim, we searched Google using relevant keywords. However, we did not find any credible media report confirming the claim.On closely examining the viral video, we noticed several unusual visuals and technical inconsistencies, raising suspicion that it might be AI-generated. To verify this, we scanned the video using the AI detection tool Sightengine. According to the results, around 74 percent of the video shows the likelihood of being AI-generated.

‍

‍

Conclusion:

Our research found that the viral video is not real but has been created using artificial intelligence technology.

‍

Introduction

In the age of digital advancement, where technology continually grows, so does the method of crime. The rise of cybercrime has created various threats to individuals and organizations, businesses, and government agencies. To combat such crimes law enforcement agencies are looking out for innovative solutions against these challenges. One such innovative solution is taken by the Surat Police in Gujarat, who have embraced the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to bolster their efforts in reducing cybercrimes.

Key Highlights

Surat, India, has launched an AI-based WhatsApp chatbot called "Surat Police Cyber Mitra Chatbot" to tackle growing cybercrime. The chatbot provides quick assistance to individuals dealing with various cyber issues, ranging from reporting cyber crimes to receiving safety tips. The initiative is the first of its kind in the country, showcasing Surat Police's dedication to using advanced technology for public safety. Surat Police Commissioner-in-Charge commended the use of AI in crime control as a positive step forward, while also stressing the need for continuous improvements in various areas, including technological advancements, data acquisition related to cybercrime, and training for police personnel.

The Surat Cyber Mitra Chatbot, available on WhatsApp number 9328523417, offers round-the-clock assistance to citizens, allowing them to access crucial information on cyber fraud and legal matters. 

Surat Police's AI Chatbot: Cyber Mitra

• Surat Police in Gujarat, India, has launched an AI-based WhatsApp chatbot, "Surat Police Cyber Mitra Chatbot," to combat growing cybercrime.
• The chatbot provides assistance to individuals dealing with various cyber issues, from reporting cyber crimes to receiving safety tips.
• The initiative is the first of its kind in the country, showcasing Surat Police's dedication to using advanced technology for public safety.
• The Surat Cyber Mitra Chatbot, available on WhatsApp number 9328523417, offers round-the-clock assistance to citizens, providing crucial information on cyber fraud.

The Growing Cybercrime Threat

With the advancement of technology, cybercrime has become more complex due to the interconnectivity of digital devices and the internet. The criminals exploit vulnerabilities in software, networks, and human behavior to perpetrate a wide range of malicious activities to fulfill their illicit gains. Individuals and organizations face a wide range of cyber risks that can cause significant financial, reputational, and emotional harm. 

Surat Police’s Strategic Initiative

Surat Police Cyber Mitra Chatbot is an AI-powered tool for instant problem resolution. This innovative approach allows citizens to address any issue or query at their doorstep, providing immediate and accurate responses to concerns. The chatbot is accessible 24/7, 24 hours a day, and serves as a reliable resource for obtaining legal information related to cyber fraud.

The use of AI in police initiatives has been a topic of discussion for some time, and the Surat City Police has taken this step to leverage technology for the betterment of society. The chatbot promises to boost public trust towards law enforcement and improve the legal system by addressing citizen issues within seconds, ranging from financial disputes to cyber fraud incidents.

This accessibility extends to inquiries such as how to report financial crimes or cyber-fraud incidents and understand legal procedures. The availability of accurate information will not only enhance citizens' trust in the police but also contribute to the efficiency of law enforcement operations. The availability of accurate information will lead to more informed interactions between citizens and the police, fostering a stronger sense of community security and collaboration.

The utilisation of this chatbot will facilitate access to information and empower citizens to engage more actively with the legal system. As trust in the police grows and legal processes become more transparent and accessible, the overall integrity and effectiveness of the legal system are expected to improve significantly.

Conclusion

The Surat Police Cyber Mitra Chatbot is an AI-powered tool that provides round-the-clock assistance to citizens, enhancing public trust in law enforcement and streamlining access to legal information. This initiative bridges the gap between law enforcement and the community, fostering a stronger sense of security and collaboration, and driving improvements in the efficiency and integrity of the legal process.

References:

• https://www.ahmedabadmirror.com/surat-first-city-in-india-to-launch-ai-chatbot-to-tackle-cybercrime/81861788.html
• https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/secure-india/gujarat-surat-police-adopts-ai-to-check-cyber-crimes/107410981
• https://www.timesnownews.com/india/chatbot-and-advanced-analytics-surat-police-utilising-ai-technology-to-reduce-cybercrime-article-107397157
• https://www.grownxtdigital.in/technology/surat-police-ai-cyber-mitra-chatbot-gujarat/

‍