#FactCheck: A viral claim suggests that by turning on Advance Chat Privacy, Meta AI can avoid reading Whatsapp chats.

Introduction

The land of the dragon has been significantly advanced in terms of innovation and creating self-sustaining technologies of civic and military importance. Leading nations of the West still need to understand the advancements the dragon land has made in technologies and what potential threats it poses on an international level.

Int on Dragon Land

According to a leaked US intelligence study, China is developing powerful cyber weapons to “seize control” of adversary satellites and render them worthless for data communications or surveillance during combat.

According to the US, China’s effort to build up the capacity to “deny, exploit, or hijack” hostile satellites is critical to controlling information, which Beijing views as a crucial “war-fighting domain.”^[1]

The CIA-marked document, one of hundreds purportedly given by a 21-year-old US Air Guardsman in the most influential American intelligence leaks in over a decade, was released this year and has yet to be disclosed before.

This kind of cyber capabilities would be significantly superior to what Russia has used in Ukraine, where electronic warfare troops have used a brute-force strategy to little avail.

How were the capabilities discovered?

According to a top-secret US dossier, China could use its cyber capabilities to “take control of a satellite, making it inoperable for support of communications, weapons, or intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.” The US has never acknowledged having a comparable or superior capability.

By broadcasting related frequencies from truck-mounted jamming systems like the Tirada-2, these attacks were first developed in the 1980s to block communications between low-orbit SpaceX satellites and their on-ground terminals. China’s more ambitious cyberattacks are designed to imitate the signals that adversary satellites’ operators send out, tricking them into malfunctioning or being entirely taken over at critical points in a battle.

Implications of such military capabilities

The south Chinese island nation of Taiwan is attempting to develop a communications infrastructure that can withstand an attack from China after observing how crucial satellite communications have been to the Ukrainian military.

According to a January 2023 article in the Financial Times, it is seeking investors to launch its own satellite provider while testing with 700 non-geostationary satellite receivers around Taiwan to ensure bandwidth in the case of conflict or natural calamities. Similarly, a Russian cyber strike rendered thousands of Ukrainian military routers from US-based Viasat inoperable in the hours before it launched its invasion last year, demonstrating how important satellite communications have become in contemporary wartime. This attack was deemed to be catastrophic by the Ukraine officials as it broke down the communication between the Ukraine army and the govt.

Additionally, several hundred wind turbines in Germany, Poland, and Italy were impacted, which cut off service to thousands of Viasat users in those countries. Even though it was complex, the Viasat hack required accessing the business’ computer systems and then sending commands to the modems that made them break.

How significant is the threat?

According to the leaked assessment, China’s objectives are much more sophisticated and focused towards the future. According to analysts, they would aim to disable satellites’ ability to interact with one another, relay signals and orders to weapons systems, or give back visual and intercepted electronic data. Satellites often work in interconnected clusters and remain unmanned, thus preventing the scope of proper surveillance. Officials from the US military have warned that China has made substantial advancements in creating military space technologies, particularly satellite communications. Beijing is vigorously pursuing counter-space capabilities in an effort to realise its “space dream” of being the dominant force outside of the Earth’s atmosphere by 2045.

Threat to India?

As China aggressively invests in technology meant to disrupt, degrade, and destroy our space capabilities, a potential threat remains on the Indian satellites and spaceships. The complexity of the communication network and extended distance from the Earth can point towards a high number of vulnerabilities for the Indian Space program. Still, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been working tirelessly, and as of 1st January 2022, India has 21 operational satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 28 operational satellites in Geostationary Orbit. In 2021, ISRO launched one PSLV-DL variant (PSLV-C51) mission and one GSLV-MkII variant (GSLV-F10) mission. GSLV-F10 could not accomplish the mission successfully. In 2021, India placed five satellites and 1 PSLV rocket body (PS4 stage) in Low Earth Orbits. India placed 65 rocket bodies in orbit from the first launch, of which 42 are still in orbit around the Earth, and 23 have re-entered and burnt up in the Earth’s atmosphere. The break-up event of the 4th stage of PSLV-C3 in 2001 generated 386 debris, of which 76 are still in orbit.

Conclusion

The space race is the new cold war, all nations are working towards securing their space assets while exploring new elements in outer space. It is pertinent that the national interest in space is protected, and a long awaiting space treaty for the modern age needs to be ratified by all nations with a presence in space. The future of space exploration is bright for most nations, but the threats should be eradicated, and an all-inclusive space should be promoted to maintain harmony in space.

^[1] https://www.ft.com/content/fc72d277-7fa8-4b29-9231-4feb34f43b0c

‍

Introduction

Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology released draft plans for advancing indigenous research and development in cyber forensics, quantum computing technologies, mobile security, cryptography, and Internet of Things (IoT) security. These roadmaps, crafted by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing, outline strategic approaches to address various challenges over different timeframes leading up to 2047, marking the centenary of Indian independence. These roadmaps provide valuable insights into the nation's commitment to achieving technical autonomy and bolstering resilience in critical areas of cybersecurity and emerging technologies.

Cybersecurity Roadmap

The cybersecurity strategy serves as a lighthouse for strengthening India's digital defenses. With an eye on the immediate future, the plan seeks to create "Social Media Analytics" by 2026, reflecting the rising relevance of extracting insights from the immense ocean of social media data. Furthermore, the emphasis on "Dark Web Forensics" by 2030 demonstrates an understanding of the shifting danger scenario. Ongoing attempts to detect child abuse and human trafficking reflect a dedication to using technology to address social concerns. The timescale beyond 2047 underscores the lasting nature of these difficulties and the necessity for ongoing innovation. Furthermore, the roadmap highlights plans for GPS and car forensics by 2027 and 2029, respectively, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity that spans numerous technologies.

India's quantum computing strategy outlines considerable research and development plans till 2034. Quantum computing represents the boundary of processing power, and India intends to make major progress in this area. The extended time scale reflects the inherent complexity and limitations of applying quantum physics to practical applications.

The Mobile Security Roadmap prioritises "enterprise-grade" security measures to protect critical business and government data. Furthermore, the plan emphasises the importance of an "indigenous system for secure [operating systems] and mobile device hardware," allowing India to lessen its reliance on foreign technology in the mobile ecosystem.

Cryptography Roadmap

Cryptography is the foundation of secure digital communication, and India's strategy for this sector outlines specific and time-bound objectives. The focus on 'asymmetric cryptography' and safeguarding IoT devices by 2028-33 is consistent with worldwide initiatives to improve digital security. The emphasis on "quantum-resistant cryptography," which indicates a forward-thinking approach to encryption technologies that may endure the arrival of quantum computing, which poses a possible danger to current cryptographic systems, is particularly noteworthy.

Challenges and opportunities

While these roadmaps set a visionary route for India's technologically advanced future, such ambitious undertakings bring both problems and possibilities. The intricacy of quantum computing, as well as the ever-changing nature of cyber threats, needs ongoing adaptation and engagement with the international academic community. Furthermore, establishing self-sufficiency in vital technologies necessitates significant research, development, and talent acquisition investments.

Collaboration and Global Perspectives

In an interconnected society, the success of these roadmaps is dependent on collaboration with the global community. The sharing of information, best practices, and joint research efforts can help India advance and strengthen its capacities in these transformational technologies. Building strong international collaborations would not only boost India's position but also help to progress science and technology throughout the world.

Conclusion

India's proposed roadmaps for cybersecurity, quantum computing, mobile security, encryption, and IoT security offer a strategic and forward-thinking outlook on the country's technological future. These roadmaps, which continue well beyond 2047, the centennial of Indian independence, demonstrate India's commitment to long-term resilience and innovation in the face of growing digital problems. The effective implementation of these roadmaps would safeguard India's digital environment and position the country as a worldwide leader in cutting-edge technology, helping to improve society and expand human understanding.

Reference: 

• https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/it-ministry-issues-draft-roadmaps-on-critical-technology-sectors/article67759369.ece 

‍

Introduction

The recent events in Mira Road, a bustling suburb on the outskirts of Mumbai, India, unfold like a modern-day parable, cautioning us against the perils of unverified digital content. The Mira Road incident, a communal clash that erupted into the physical realm, has been mirrored and magnified through the prism of social media. The Maharashtra Police, in a concerted effort to quell the spread of discord, issued stern warnings against the dissemination of rumours and fake messages. These digital phantoms, they stressed, have the potential to ignite law and order conflagrations, threatening the delicate tapestry of peace.

The police's clarion call came in the wake of a video, mischievously edited, that falsely claimed anti-social elements had set the Mira Road railway station ablaze. This digital doppelgänger of reality swiftly went viral, its tendrils reaching into the ubiquitous realm of WhatsApp, ensnaring the unsuspecting in its web of deceit.

In this age of information overload, where the line between fact and fabrication blurs, the police urged citizens to exercise discernment. The note they issued was not merely an advisory but a plea for vigilance, a reminder that the act of sharing unauthenticated messages is not a passive one; it is an act that can disturb the peace and unravel the fabric of society.

The Massacre 

The police's response to this crisis was multifaceted. Administrators and members of social media groups found to be the harbingers of such falsehoods would face legal repercussions. The Thane District, a mosaic of cultural and religious significance, has been marred by a series of violent incidents, casting a shadow over its storied history. The police, in their role as guardians of order, have detained individuals, scoured social media for inauthentic posts, and maintained a vigilant presence in the region.

The Maharashtra cyber cell, a digital sentinel, has unearthed approximately 15 posts laden with videos and messages designed to sow discord among the masses. These findings were shared with the Mira-Bhayandar, Vasai-Virar (MBVV) police, who stand ready to take appropriate action. Inspector General Yashasvi Yadav of the Maharashtra cyber cell issued an appeal to the public, urging them to refrain from circulating such unverified messages, reinforcing the notion that the propagation of inauthentic information is, in itself, a crime.

The MBVV police, in their zero-tolerance stance, have formed a team dedicated to scrutinizing social media posts. The message is clear: fake news will be met with strict action. The right to free speech on social media comes with the responsibility not to share information that could incite mischief. The Indian Penal Code and Information Technology Act serve as the bulwarks against such transgressions.

The Aftermath 

In the aftermath of the clashes, the police have worked tirelessly to restore calm. A young man, whose video replete with harsh and obscene language went viral, was apprehended and has since apologised for his actions. The MBVV police have also taken to social media to reassure the public that the situation is under control, urging them to avoid circulating messages that could exacerbate tensions.

The Thane district has witnessed acts of vandalism targeting shops, further escalating tensions. In response, the police have apprehended individuals linked to these acts, hoping that such measures will expedite the return of peace. Advisories have been issued, warning against the dissemination of provocative messages and rumours.

In total, 19 individuals have been taken into custody in relation to numerous incidents of violence. The Mira-Bhayandar and Vasai-Virar police have underscored their commitment to legal action against those who spread rumours through fake messages. The authorities have also highlighted the importance of brotherhood and unity, reminding citizens that above all, they are Indians first.

Conclusion 

In a world where old videos, stripped of context, can fuel tensions, the police have issued a note referring to the aforementioned fake video message. They urge citizens to exercise caution, to neither believe nor circulate such messages. Police Authorities have assured that no one involved in the violence will be spared, and peace committees are being convened to restore harmony. The Mira Road incident serves as a sign of the prowess of information and responsibility that comes with it. In the digital age, where the ephemeral and the eternal collide, we must navigate the waters of truth with care. Ultimately, it is not just the image of a locality that is at stake, but the essence of our collective humanity.

References 

• https://youtu.be/gK2Ac1qP-nE?feature=shared
• https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-crime-news/article/mira-road-communal-clash-those-spreading-fake-messages-to-face-strict-action-say-mira-bhayandar-vasai-virar-cops-23331572
• https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/mira-road-communal-clash-cybercops-on-alert-for-fake-clips-23331653
• https://www.theweek.in/wire-updates/national/2024/01/24/bom43-mh-shops-3rdld-vandalism.html

‍