#FactCheck - Viral Image of AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi Holding Lord Rama Portrait Proven Fake

Introduction 

In the digital era, where technology is growing rapidly,  the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been making its way to different corners of the world. Where nothing seems to be impossible, technology and innovation have been moving conjointly and once again, and such innovation is in the limelight with its groundbreaking initiative known as “Project Groot”, which has been announced by the AI chip leader “Nvidia”. The core of this project is the fusion of technology with AI and robotics, where a humanoid can be produced with the capability to understand the natural language and interact with it to further learn from the physical environment by observing human actions and skills. Project Groot aims to assist humans in diverse sectors such as Healthcare and so on. 

Humanoid robots are based on NVIDIA’s thor system-on-chip (SoC). The thor powers the intelligence of these robots, and the chip has been designed to handle complex tasks and ensure a safe and natural interaction between humans and robots. However, a big question arises about the ethical considerations of privacy, autonomy and the possible replacement of human workers. 

Brief Analysis 

Nvidia has announced Project GR00T, or Generalist Robot 00 Technology, which aims to create AI-powered humanoid robots with human-like understanding and movement. The project is part of Nvidia's efforts to drive breakthroughs in robotics and embodied AI, which can interact with and learn from a physical environment. The robots built on this platform are designed to understand natural language and emulate movements by observing human actions, such as coordination, dexterity, and other skills.

The model has been trained on NVIDIA GPU-accelerated simulation, enabling the robots to learn from human demonstrations with imitation learning and from the robotics platform NVIDIA Isaac Lab for reinforcement learning. This multimodal AI system acts as the mind for humanoid robots, allowing them to learn new skills and interact with the real world. Leading names in robotics, such as Figure, Boston Dynamics, Apptronik, Agility Robotics, Sanctuary AI, and Unitree, are reported to have collaborated with Nvidia to leverage GR00T.

Nvidia has also updated Isaac with Isaac Manipulator and Isaac Perceptor, which add multi-camera 3D vision. The company also unveiled a new computer, Jetson Thor, to aid humanoid robots based on NVIDIA's SoC, which is designed to handle complex tasks and ensure a safe and natural interaction between humans and robots.

Despite the potential job loss associated with humanoid robots potentially handling hazardous and repetitive tasks, many argue that they can aid humans and make their lives more comfortable rather than replacing them.

Policy Recommendations 

The Nvidia project highlights a significant development in AI Robotics, presenting a brimming potential and ethical challenges critical for the overall development and smooth assimilation of AI-driven tech in society. To ensure its smooth assimilation, a comprehensive policy framework must be put in place. This includes:

• Human First Policy - Emphasis should be on better augmentation rather than replacement. The authorities must focus on better research and development (R&D) of applications that aid in modifying human capabilities, enhancing working conditions, and playing a role in societal growth. 
• Proper Ethical Guidelines - Guidelines stressing human safety, autonomy and privacy should be established. These norms must include consent for data collection, fair use of AI in decision making and proper protocols for data security. 
• Deployment of Inclusive Technology - Access to AI Driven Robotics tech should be made available to diverse sectors of society. It is imperative to address potential algorithm bias and design flaws to avoid discrimination and promote inclusivity.
• Proper Regulatory Frameworks - It is crucial to establish regulatory frameworks to govern the smooth deployment and operation of AI-driven tech. The framework must include certification for safety and standards, frequent audits and liability protocols to address accidents. 
• Training Initiatives - Educational programs should be introduced to train the workforce for integrating AI driven robotics and their proper handling. Upskilling of the workforce should be the top priority of corporations to ensure effective integration of AI Robotics. 
• Collaborative Research Initiatives - AI and emerging technologies have a profound impact on the trajectory of human development. It is imperative to foster collaboration among governments, industry and academia to drive innovation in AI robotics responsibly and undertake collaborative initiatives to mitigate and address technical, societal, legal and ethical issues posed by AI Robots. 

Conclusion 

On the whole, Project GROOT is a significant quantum leap in the advancement of robotic technology and indeed paves the way for a future where robots can integrate seamlessly into various aspects of human lives. 

References

• https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/what-is-nvidias-project-gr00t-impact-robotics-9225089/
• https://medium.com/paper-explanation/understanding-nvidias-project-groot-762d4246b76d
• https://www.techradar.com/pro/nvidias-project-groot-brings-the-human-robot-future-a-significant-step-closer
• https://www.barrons.com/livecoverage/nvidia-gtc-ai-conference/card/nvidia-announces-ai-model-for-humanoid-robot-development-BwT9fewMyD6XbuBrEDSp

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Executive Summary:

The viral image in the social media which depicts fake injuries on the face of the MP(Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha) Kangana Ranaut alleged to have been beaten by a CISF officer at the Chandigarh airport. The reverse search of the viral image taken back to 2006, was part of an anti-mosquito commercial and does not feature the MP,  Kangana Ranaut. The findings contradict the claim that the photos are evidence of injuries resulting from the incident involving the MP, Kangana Ranaut. It is always important to verify the truthfulness of  visual content before sharing it, to prevent misinformation.

Claims:

The images circulating on social media platforms claiming the injuries on the MP, Kangana Ranaut’s face were because of an assault incident by a female CISF officer at Chandigarh airport. This claim hinted that the photos are evidence of the physical quarrel and resulting injuries suffered by  the MP, Kangana Ranaut.

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Fact Check:

When we received the posts, we reverse-searched the image and found another photo that looked similar to the viral one. We could verify through the earring in the viral image with the new image. 

The reverse image search revealed that the photo was originally uploaded in 2006 and is unrelated to the MP, Kangana Ranaut. It depicts a model in an advertisement for an anti-mosquito spray campaign.

We can validate this from the earrings in the photo after the comparison   between the two photos.

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Hence, we can confirm that the viral image of the injury mark of the MP, Kangana Ranaut has been debunked as fake and misleading, instead it has been cropped out from the original photo to misrepresent the context.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the viral photos on social media which claimed to be the results of injuries on the MP, Kangana Ranaut’s face after being assaulted allegedly by a CISF officer at the airport in Chandigarh were fake. Detailed analysis of the pictures provided the fact that the pictures have no connection with Ranaut; the picture was a 2006 anti-mosquito spray advertisement; therefore, the allegations that show these images as that of Ranaut’s injury are fake and misleading.

• Claim:  photos circulating on social media claiming to show injuries on the MP, Kangana Ranaut's face following an assault incident by a female CISF officer at Chandigarh airport.
• Claimed on: X (Formerly known as Twitter), thread, Facebook
• Fact Check: Fake & Misleading

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Executive Summary

The IT giant Apple has alerted customers to the impending threat of "mercenary spyware" assaults in 92 countries, including India. These highly skilled attacks, which are frequently linked to both private and state actors  (such as the NSO Group’s Pegasus spyware), target specific individuals, including politicians, journalists, activists and diplomats. In sharp contrast to consumer-grade malware, these attacks are in a league unto themselves: highly-customized to fit the individual target and involving significant resources to create and use.

As the incidence of such attacks rises, it is important that all persons, businesses, and officials equip themselves with information about how such mercenary spyware programs work, what are the most-used methods, how these attacks can be prevented and what one must do if targeted. Individuals and organizations can begin protecting themselves against these attacks by enabling "Lockdown Mode" to provide an extra layer of security to their devices and by frequently changing passwords and by not visiting the suspicious URLs or attachments. 

Introduction: Understanding Mercenary Spyware

Mercenary spyware is a special kind of spyware that is developed exclusively for law enforcement and government organizations. These kinds of spywares are not available in app stores, and are developed for attacking a particular individual and require a significant investment of resources and advanced technologies. Mercenary spyware hackers infiltrate systems by means of techniques such as phishing (by sending malicious links or attachments), pretexting (by manipulating the individuals to share personal information) or baiting (using tempting offers). They often intend to use Advanced Persistent Threats (APT)  where the hackers remain undetected for a prolonged period of time to steal data by continuous stealthy infiltration of the target’s network. The other method to gain access is through zero-day vulnerabilities, which is the process of gaining access to mobile devices using vulnerabilities existing in software. A well-known example of mercenary spyware includes the infamous Pegasus by the NSO Group.

Actions:  By Apple against Mercenary Spyware

Apple has introduced an advanced, optional protection feature in its newer product versions (including iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura) to combat mercenary spyware attacks. These features have been provided to the users who are at risk of targeted cyber attacks.

Apple released a statement on the matter, sharing, “mercenary spyware attackers apply exceptional resources to target a very small number of specific individuals and their devices. Mercenary spyware attacks cost millions of dollars and often have a short shelf life, making them much harder to detect and prevent.”

When Apple's internal threat intelligence and investigations detect these highly-targeted attacks, they take immediate action to notify the affected users. The notification process involves:

• Displaying a "Threat Notification" at the top of the user's Apple ID page after they sign in.

• Sending an email and iMessage alert to the addresses and phone numbers associated with the user's Apple ID.
• Providing clear instructions on steps the user should take to protect their devices, including enabling "Lockdown Mode" for the strongest available security.
• Apple stresses that these threat notifications are "high-confidence alerts" - meaning they have strong evidence that the user has been deliberately targeted by mercenary spyware. As such, these alerts should be taken extremely seriously by recipients.

Modus Operandi of Mercenary Spyware

1. Installing advanced surveillance equipment remotely and covertly.

2. Using zero-click or one-click attacks to take advantage of device vulnerabilities.

3. Gain access to a variety of data on the device, including location tracking, call logs, text messages, passwords, microphone, camera, and app information.

4. Installation by utilizing many system vulnerabilities on devices running particular iOS and Android versions.

5. Defense by patching vulnerabilities with security updates (e.g., CVE-2023-41991, CVE-2023-41992, CVE-2023-41993).

6. Utilizing defensive DNS services, non-signature-based endpoint technologies, and frequent device reboots as mitigation techniques.

Prevention Measures: Safeguarding Your Devices

1. Turn on security measures: Make use of the security features that the device maker has supplied, such as Apple's Lockdown Mode, which is intended to prevent viruses of all types from infecting Apple products, such as iPhones.

2. Frequent software upgrades: Make sure the newest security and software updates are installed on your devices. This aids in patching holes that mercenary malware could exploit.

3. Steer clear of misleading connections: Exercise caution while opening attachments or accessing links from unidentified sources. Installing mercenary spyware is possible via phishing links or attachments.

4. Limit app permissions: Reassess and restrict app permissions to avoid unwanted access to private information.

5. Use secure networks: To reduce the chance of data interception, connect to secure Wi-Fi networks and stay away from public or unprotected connections.

6. Install security applications: To identify and stop any spyware attacks, think about installing reliable security programs from reliable sources.

7. Be alert: If Apple or other device makers send you a threat notice, consider it carefully and take the advised security precautions.

8. Two-factor authentication: To provide an extra degree of protection against unwanted access, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Apple ID and other significant accounts.

9. Consider additional security measures: For high-risk individuals, consider using additional security measures, such as encrypted communication apps and secure file storage services

Way Forward: Strengthening Digital Defenses, Strengthening Democracy

People, businesses and administrations must prioritize cyber security measures and keep up with emerging dangers as mercenary spyware attacks continue to develop and spread. To effectively address the growing threat of digital espionage, cooperation between government agencies, cybersecurity specialists, and technology businesses is essential.

In the Indian context, the update carries significant policy implications and must inspire a discussion on legal frameworks for government surveillance practices and cyber security protocols in the nation. As the public becomes more informed about such sophisticated cyber threats, we can expect a greater push for oversight mechanisms and regulatory protocols. The misuse of surveillance technology poses a significant threat to individuals and institutions alike. Policy reforms concerning surveillance tech must be tailored to address the specific concerns of the use of such methods by state actors vs. private players. 

There is a pressing need for electoral reforms that help safeguard democratic processes in the current digital age. There has been a paradigm shift in how political activities are conducted in current times: the advent of the digital domain has seen parties and leaders pivot their campaigning efforts to favor the online audience as enthusiastically as they campaign offline. Given that this is an election year, quite possibly the most significant one in modern Indian history, digital outreach and online public engagement are expected to be at an all-time high. And so, it is imperative to protect the electoral process against cyber threats so that public trust in the legitimacy of India’s democratic is rewarded and the digital domain is an asset, and not a threat, to good governance.

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