#FactCheck- Old Kerala church raid video falsely shared with exaggerated ₹7000 crore cash seizure claim
Executive Summary
A set of two images is being widely circulated on social media claiming that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) recently raided a church in Kerala and seized ₹7000 crore in black money. The viral post also alleges that the media deliberately suppressed the news. CyberPeace Research Wing research found the claim to be misleading. The visuals are not recent and are linked to an Income Tax Department action conducted in 2020 at the Believers Eastern Church in Kerala.
Claim:
A Facebook user shared the viral post claiming that ₹7000 crore in black money was seized from a Kerala-based church run by a bishop named Yohannan, and alleged that mainstream media ignored the incident.
Post link: https://www.facebook.com/reel/2143680196569943 , https://archive.ph/submit/
Fact Check:
A keyword search related to the alleged raid on Believers Church in Kerala led to several news reports published in November 2020. A report published in The Hindu on November 6, 2020 stated that a crackdown by the Income Tax Department on the Thiruvalla-based Believers Eastern Church had reportedly uncovered several irregularities. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/raids-bring-to-light-shady-deals-of-believers-church/article33041420.ece
Further verification from the official Income Tax Department website confirmed details of the search operation. According to the press release, approximately ₹6 crore in unexplained cash was recovered during the raid, including ₹3.85 crore from a place of worship in Delhi. https://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/Lists/Press%20Releases/Attachments/872/PressRelease_ITD_conducts_searches_in_Kerala_6_11_20.pdf
The release also noted that evidence suggested possible cash siphoning running into hundreds of crores of rupees.Additional media reports, including The Indian Express, stated that the total seizure amounted to around ₹14 crore. https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala/i-t-raids-kerala-church-premises-on-charge-of-diverting-charity-funds-6984466/
Conclusion:
The research confirms that the viral claim is misleading. The incident is from 2020 and not recent. During the Income Tax Department raid on the Believers Eastern Church in Kerala, around ₹6 crore in cash was recovered, with total seizures reported up to ₹14 crore in media reports. There is no evidence of any ₹7000 crore seizure as claimed in the viral post.
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Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of technological innovation, a new chapter is being inscribed by the bold visionaries at Figure AI, a startup that is not merely capitalising on artificial intelligence rage but seeking to crest its very pinnacle. With the recent influx of a staggering $675 million in funding, this Sunnyvale, California-based enterprise has captured the imagination of industry giants and venture capitalists alike, all betting on a future where humanoid robots transcend the realm of science fiction to become an integral part of our daily lives.
The narrative of Figure AI's ascent is punctuated by the names of tech luminaries and corporate giants. Jeff Bezos, through his firm Explore Investments LLC, has infused a hefty $100 million into the venture. Microsoft, not to be outdone, has contributed a cool $95 million. Nvidia and an Amazon-affiliated fund have each bestowed $50 million upon Figure AI's ambitious endeavours. This surge of capital is a testament to the potential seen in the company's mission to develop general-purpose humanoid robots that promise to revolutionise industries and redefine human labour.
The Catalyst for Change
This investment craze can be traced back to the emergence of OpenAI's ChatGPT, a chatbot that caught the public eye in November 2022. Its success has not only ushered in a new era for AI but has also sparked a race among investors eager to stake their claim in startups determined to outshine their more established counterparts. OpenAI itself, once mulling over the acquisition of Figure AI, has now joined the ranks of its benefactors with a $5 million investment.
The roster of backers reads like a who's who of the tech and venture capital world. Intel's venture capital arm, LG Innotek, Samsung's investment group, Parkway Venture Capital, Align Ventures, ARK Venture Fund, Aliya Capital Partners, and Tamarack—all have invested their lot with Figure AI, signalling a broad consensus on the startup's potential to disrupt and innovate.
Yet, when probed for insights, these major players—Amazon, Nvidia, Microsoft, and Intel—have maintained a Sphinx-like silence, while Figure AI and other entities mentioned in the report have refrained from immediate responses to inquiries. This veil of secrecy only adds to the intrigue surrounding the company's prospects and the transformative impact its technology may have on society.
Need For AI Robots
Figure AI's robots are not mere assemblages of metal and circuitry; they are envisioned as versatile beings capable of navigating a multitude of environments and executing a diverse array of tasks. From working at aisles of warehouses to the bustling corridors of retail spaces, these humanoid automatons are being designed to fill the void of millions of jobs projected to remain vacant due to a shrinking human labour force.
The company's long-term mission statement is as audacious as it is altruistic: 'to develop general-purpose humanoids that make a positive impact on humanity and create a better life for future generations.' This noble pursuit is not just about engineering efficiency; it is about reshaping the very fabric of work, liberating humans from hazardous and menial tasks, and propelling us towards a future where our lives are enriched with purpose and fulfilment.
Conclusion
As we stand on the cusp of a new digital world, the strides of Figure AI serve as a beacon, illuminating the path towards machine and human symbiosis. The investment frenzy that has enveloped the company is a clarion call to all dreamers, pragmatists and innovators alike that the age of humanoid helpers is upon us, and the possibilities are as endless as our collective imagination.
Figure AI is forging a future where robots walk among us, not as novelties or overlords but as partners in forging a world where technology and humanity work together to unlock untold potential. The story of Figure AI is not just one of investment and innovation; it is a narrative of hope, a testament to the indomitable spirit of human ingenuity, and a preview of the wondrous epoch that lies just beyond the horizon.
References
- https://cybernews.com/tech/openai-bezos-nvidia-fund-robot-startup-figure-ai/
- https://www.thedailystar.net/business/news/bezos-nvidia-join-openai-funding-humanoid-robot-startup-3551476
- https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-02-23/bezos-nvidia-join-openai-microsoft-in-funding-humanoid-robot-startup-figure-ai
- https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/technology/bezos-nvidia-join-openai-in-funding-humanoid-robot-startup-report/articleshow/107967102.cms?from=mdr
Introduction
Considering the development of technology, Voice cloning schemes are one such issue that has recently come to light. Scammers are moving forward with AI, and their methods and plans for deceiving and scamming people have also altered. Deepfake technology creates realistic imitations of a person’s voice that can be used to conduct fraud, dupe a person into giving up crucial information, or even impersonate a person for illegal purposes. We will look at the dangers and risks associated with AI voice cloning frauds, how scammers operate and how one might protect themselves from one.
What is Deepfake?
Artificial intelligence (AI), known as “deepfake,” can produce fake or altered audio, video, and film that pass for the real thing. The words “deep learning” and “fake” are combined to get the name “deep fake”. Deepfake technology creates content with a realistic appearance or sound by analysing and synthesising diverse volumes of data using machine learning algorithms. Con artists employ technology to portray someone doing something that has never been in audio or visual form. The best example is the American President, who used deep voice impersonation technology. Deep voice impersonation technology can be used maliciously, such as in deep voice fraud or disseminating false information. As a result, there is growing concerned about the potential influence of deep fake technology on society and the need for effective tools to detect and mitigate the hazards it may provide.
What exactly are deepfake voice scams?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is sometimes utilised in deepfake speech frauds to create synthetic audio recordings that seem like real people. Con artists can impersonate someone else over the phone and pressure their victims into providing personal information or paying money by using contemporary technology. A con artist may pose as a bank employee, a government official, or a friend or relative by utilising a deep false voice. It aims to earn the victim’s trust and raise the likelihood that they will fall for the hoax by conveying a false sense of familiarity and urgency. Deep fake speech frauds are increasing in frequency as deep fake technology becomes more widely available, more sophisticated, and harder to detect. In order to avoid becoming a victim of such fraud, it is necessary to be aware of the risks and take appropriate measures.
Why do cybercriminals use AI voice deep fake?
In order to mislead users into providing private information, money, or system access, cybercriminals utilise artificial intelligence (AI) speech-deep spoofing technology to claim to be people or entities. Using AI voice-deep fake technology, cybercriminals can create audio recordings that mimic real people or entities, such as CEOs, government officials, or bank employees, and use them to trick victims into taking activities that are advantageous to the criminals. This can involve asking victims for money, disclosing login credentials, or revealing sensitive information. In phishing assaults, where fraudsters create audio recordings that impersonate genuine messages from organisations or people that victims trust, deepfake AI voice technology can also be employed. These audio recordings can trick people into downloading malware, clicking on dangerous links, or giving out personal information. Additionally, false audio evidence can be produced using AI voice-deep fake technology to support false claims or accusations. This is particularly risky regarding legal processes because falsified audio evidence may lead to wrongful convictions or acquittals. Artificial intelligence voice deep fake technology gives con artists a potent tool for tricking and controlling victims. Every organisation and the general population must be informed of this technology’s risk and adopt the appropriate safety measures.
How to spot voice deepfake and avoid them?
Deep fake technology has made it simpler for con artists to edit audio recordings and create phoney voices that exactly mimic real people. As a result, a brand-new scam called the “deep fake voice scam” has surfaced. In order to trick the victim into handing over money or private information, the con artist assumes another person’s identity and uses a fake voice. What are some ways to protect oneself from deepfake voice scams? Here are some guidelines to help you spot them and keep away from them:
- Steer clear of telemarketing calls
- One of the most common tactics used by deep fake voice con artists, who pretend to be bank personnel or government officials, is making unsolicited phone calls.
- Listen closely to the voice
- Anyone who phones you pretending to be someone else should pay special attention to their voice. Are there any peculiar pauses or inflexions in their speech? Something that doesn’t seem right can be a deep voice fraud.
- Verify the caller’s identity
- It’s crucial to verify the caller’s identity in order to avoid falling for a deep false voice scam. You might ask for their name, job title, and employer when in doubt. You can then do some research to be sure they are who they say they are.
- Never divulge confidential information
- No matter who calls, never give out personal information like your Aadhar, bank account information, or passwords over the phone. Any legitimate companies or organisations will never request personal or financial information over the phone; if they do, it’s a warning sign that they’re a scammer.
- Report any suspicious activities
- Inform the appropriate authorities if you think you’ve fallen victim to a deep voice fraud. This may include your bank, credit card company, local police station, or the nearest cyber cell. By reporting the fraud, you could prevent others from being a victim.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the field of AI voice deep fake technology is fast expanding and has huge potential for beneficial and detrimental effects. While deep fake voice technology has the potential to be used for good, such as improving speech recognition systems or making voice assistants sound more realistic, it may also be used for evil, such as deep fake voice frauds and impersonation to fabricate stories. Users must be aware of the hazard and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves as AI voice deep fake technology develops, making it harder to detect and prevent deep fake schemes. Additionally, it is necessary to conduct ongoing research and develop efficient techniques to identify and control the risks related to this technology. We must deploy AI appropriately and ethically to ensure that AI voice-deep fake technology benefits society rather than harming or deceiving it.
Reference
Introduction
Children today are growing up amidst technology, and the internet has become an important part of their lives. The internet provides a wealth of recreational and educational options and learning environments to children, but it also presents extensively unseen difficulties, particularly in the context of deepfakes and misinformation. AI is capable of performing complex tasks in a fast time. However, misuse of AI technologies led to increasing cyber crimes. The growing nature of cyber threats can have a negative impact on children wellbeing and safety while using the Internet.
India's Digital Environment
India has one of the world's fastest-growing internet user bases, and young netizens here are getting online every passing day. The internet has now become an inseparable part of their everyday lives, be it social media or online courses. But the speed at which the digital world is evolving has raised many privacy and safety concerns increasing the chance of exposure to potentially dangerous content.
Misinformation: The raising Concern
Today, the internet is filled with various types of misinformation, and youngsters are especially vulnerable to its adverse effects. With the diversity in the language and culture in India, the spread of misinformation can have a vast negative impact on society. In particular, misinformation in education has the power to divulge young brains and create hindrances in their cognitive development.
To address this issue, it is important that parents, academia, government, industry and civil society start working together to promote digital literacy initiatives that educate children to critically analyse online material which can ease navigation in the digital realm.
DeepFakes: The Deceptive Mirage:
Deepfakes, or digitally altered videos and/or images made with the use of artificial intelligence, pose a huge internet threat. The possible ramifications of deepfake technology are concerning in India, since there is a high level of dependence on the media. Deepfakes can have far-reaching repercussions, from altering political narratives to disseminating misleading information.
Addressing the deepfake problem demands a multifaceted strategy. Media literacy programs should be integrated into the educational curriculum to assist youngsters in distinguishing between legitimate and distorted content. Furthermore, strict laws as well as technology developments are required to detect and limit the negative impact of deepfakes.
Safeguarding Children in Cyberspace
● Parental Guidance and Open Communication: Open communication and parental guidance are essential for protecting children's internet safety. It's a necessity to have open discussions about the possible consequences and appropriate internet use. Understanding the platforms and material children are consuming online, parents should actively participate in their children's online activities.
● Educational Initiatives: Comprehensive programs for digital literacy must be implemented in educational settings. Critical thinking abilities, internet etiquette, and knowledge of the risks associated with deepfakes and misinformation should all be included in these programs. Fostering a secure online environment requires giving young netizens the tools they need to question and examine digital content.
● Policies and Rules: Admitting the threats or risks posed by misuse of advanced technologies such as AI and deepfake, the Indian government is on its way to coming up with dedicated legislation to tackle the issues arising from misuse of deepfake technology by the bad actors. The government has recently come up with an advisory to social media intermediaries to identify misinformation and deepfakes and to make sure of the compliance of Information Technology (IT) Rules 2021. It is the legal obligation of online platforms to prevent the spread of misinformation and exercise due diligence or reasonable efforts are made to identify misinformation and deepfakes. Legal frameworks need to be equipped to handle the challenges posed by AI. Accountability in AI is a complex issue that requires comprehensive legal reforms. In light of various cases reported about the misuse of deepfakes and spreading such deepfake content on social media, It is advocated that there is a need to adopt and enforce strong laws to address the challenges posed by misinformation and deepfakes. Working with technological companies to implement advanced content detection tools and ensuring that law enforcement takes swift action against those who misuse technology will act as a deterrent among cyber crooks.
● Digital parenting: It is important for parents to keep up with the latest trends and digital technologies. Digital parenting includes understanding privacy settings, monitoring online activity, and using parental control tools to create a safe online environment for children.
Conclusion
As India continues to move forward digitally, protecting children in cyberspace has become a shared responsibility. By promoting digital literacy, encouraging open communication and enforcing strong laws, we can create a safer online environment for younger generations. Knowledge, understanding, and active efforts to combat misinformation and deeply entrenched myths are the keys to unlocking the safety net in the online age. Social media Intermediaries or platforms must ensure compliance under IT Rules 2021, IT Act, 2000 and the newly enacted Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. It is the shared responsibility of the government, parents & teachers, users and organisations to establish safe online space for children.
