#Factcheck-False Claims of Houthi Attack on Israel’s Ashkelon Power Plant

Introduction

We consume news from various sources such as news channels, social media platforms and the Internet etc. In the age of the Internet and social media, the concern of misinformation has become a common issue as there is widespread misinformation or fake news on the Internet and social media platforms.

Misinformation on social media platforms

The wide availability of user-provided content on online social media platforms facilitates the spread of misinformation. With the vast population on social media platforms, the information gets viral and spreads all over the internet. It has become a serious concern as such misinformation, including rumours, morphed images, unverified information, fake news, and planted stories, spread easily on the internet, leading to severe consequences such as public riots, lynching, communal tensions, misconception about facts, defamation etc.

Platform-centric measures to mitigate the spread of misinformation

• Google introduced the ‘About this result’ feature’. This allows the users to help with better understand the search results and websites at a glance.
• During the covid-19 pandemic, there were huge cases of misinformation being shared. Google, in April 2020, invested $6.5 million in funding to fact-checkers and non-profits fighting misinformation around the world, including a check on information related to coronavirus or on issues related to the treatment, prevention, and transmission of Covid-19.
• YouTube also have its Medical Misinformation Policy which prevents the spread of information or content which is in contravention of the World Health Organization (WHO) or local health authorities.
• At the time of the Covid-19 pandemic, major social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram have started showing awareness pop-ups which connected people to information directly from the WHO and regional authorities.
• WhatsApp has a limit on the number of times a WhatsApp message can be forwarded to prevent the spread of fake news. And also shows on top of the message that it is forwarded many times. WhatsApp has also partnered with fact-checking organisations to make sure to have access to accurate information.
• On Instagram as well, when content has been rated as false or partly false, Instagram either removes it or reduces its distribution by reducing its visibility in Feeds.

Fight Against Misinformation

Misinformation is rampant all across the world, and the same needs to be addressed at the earliest. Multiple developed nations have synergised with tech bases companies to address this issue, and with the increasing penetration of social media and the internet, this remains a global issue. Big tech companies such as Meta and Google have undertaken various initiatives globally to address this issue. Google has taken up the initiative to address this issue in India and, in collaboration with Civil Society Organisations, multiple avenues for mass-scale awareness and upskilling campaigns have been piloted to make an impact on the ground.

How to prevent the spread of misinformation?

Conclusion

In the digital media space, there is a widespread of misinformative content and information. Platforms like Google and other social media platforms have taken proactive steps to prevent the spread of misinformation. Users should also act responsibly while sharing any information. Hence creating a safe digital environment for everyone.

Data localisation refers to restrictions in the data flow by limiting the physical storage and processing of data within a given jurisdiction’s boundaries.  

An obvious benefit contributing to the importance of data localisation is the privacy benefits it offers. In addition to this, data localisation also has the potential to safeguard sensitive data and decrease the probability of cyber-attacks. In India, data localisation has become a key issue in the last decade due to the increase in the discourse for data privacy. 

The Legal Framework in India

India passed the Digital Personal Data Protection Act of 2023 which directs the data fiduciaries (collectors and processors of digital personal data) to store the data of Indian citizens within India. This push for data localisation aligns with India’s position to enhance privacy, national security and regulatory control. It further requires data fiduciaries to adhere to the principles of data minimisation, purposeful limitation and consent of the data principles. Further, Section 17 of the Act prohibits the transfer of sensitive personal data to foreign jurisdictions unless they meet satisfactory privacy protection standards. 

The Reserve Bank of India, via a circular for Payments Data Regulation in 2018, has mandated that all payment data be stored in India, though it can be processed abroad. It requires the telecom sector to ensure local storage and local processing of subscriber information. It further prohibits the transferring of subscribers’ account information overseas.

MeitY’s Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, emphasise data localisation, specifically when it involves government or critical data. The main idea behind this is that data related to Indian citizens or government activities should remain accessible to Indian law enforcement agencies and is not subject to external jurisdiction.

Common Misinformation about Data Localisation and its Impact

Misconceptions fuel misinformation and influence public perception and policy debates. A common misconception is that all data must be stored in India. It should be noted that non-critical and non-sensitive data are not subject to localisation, and can be cleared for cross-border transfers under specific circumstances.

Another misconception is that data localisation alone ensures complete security. A robust cybersecurity approach, infrastructure and capabilities are what guarantee security and this holds true regardless of the location of where the data is stored. 

The notion that small businesses and startups will suffer the most is untrue. While data localisation policies may lead to increased costs, they foster innovation in the domestic infrastructure and services. This potentially fuels development and innovation in these small businesses and startups. Claims that data localisation will stifle global business are unfounded. 

Proper regulations for data transfers can help balance data flows, enabling international trade while ensuring data sovereignty.

Real Impact of Data Localisation

Data localisation impacts several domains and has both positive and negative outcomes.

• It can be a driver for investment in local data centres and infrastructure, thereby inducing employment generation and boosting the domestic economy. And in contrast, the compliance costs may rise especially for MNCs that need to maintain multiple data storage systems. 
• It can expedite the growth of local technology ecosystems while encouraging innovation in cloud computing and data storage solutions. On the other hand, small businesses might face struggles to afford the required infrastructure updates and upgrades.
• Law enforcement agencies will be able to gain access to data more swiftly while avoiding lengthy processes such as the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs). However, it should be noted that storing data locally does not automatically ensure that they are immune from attacks and breaches.
• A balance between sovereignty and global partnerships is a challenge that emerges with data localisation. International Trade Relationships are vulnerable to data localisations where countries favour a free data flow. This can hamper foreign collaborations with companies that rely on global data systems.

CyberPeace Outlook

It is important to clear misinformation about data localisation, some strategies that can be undertaken are:

• Launching public awareness campaigns to educate the stakeholders about the real requirements and the benefits of data localisation. Misinformation about data restrictions and security guarantees should be tackled fairly quickly. 
• A balanced approach that promotes local economic development while at the same time allowing for the necessary cross-border data flows and creating a flexible and friendly business environment is important.
• India should work on international frameworks to streamline the process of data-sharing with other nations. This would protect national interests while making global cooperation easier.

Conclusion

Data localisation in India presents a valuable opportunity to enhance privacy, bolster national security, and stimulate economic growth through local infrastructure investment. Yet, addressing common misconceptions is crucial; the belief that all data must be stored domestically or that localisation alone ensures security is misleading. 

It’s vital to pair local data storage with robust cybersecurity measures and foster international cooperation. Supporting small businesses, which may face challenges due to localisation requirements, is equally important. By addressing misinformation, promoting flexible regulations, and working towards global data-sharing frameworks, India can effectively manage the complexities of data localisation, safeguarding national interests while encouraging innovation and economic development. 

References

• https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/are-data-localisation-requirements-necessary-and-proportionate/article66131957.ece 
• https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2021/04/how-would-data-localization-benefit-india?lang=en
• https://www.rbi.org.in/commonperson/English/Scripts/FAQs.aspx?Id=2995
• https://www.meity.gov.in/writereaddata/files/Information%20Technology%20%28Intermediary%20Guidelines%20and%20Digital%20Media%20Ethics%20Code%29%20Rules%2C%202021%20%28updated%2006.04.2023%29-.pdf 

Introduction

As we navigate the digital realm that offers unlimited opportunities, it also exposes us to potential cyber threats and scams. A recent incident involving a businessman in Pune serves as a stark reminder of this reality. The victim fell prey to a sophisticated online impersonation fraud, where a cunning criminal posed as a high-ranking official from Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL). This cautionary tale exposes the inner workings of the scam and highlights the critical need for constant vigilance in the virtual world.

Unveiling the scam

It all began with a phone call received by the victim, who lives in Taware Colony, Pune, on September 5, 2023. The caller, who identified himself as "Manish Pande, department head of HPCL," lured the victim by taking advantage of his online search for an LPG agency. With persuasive tactics, the fraudster claimed to be on the lookout for potential partners.

When a Pune man received a call on September 5, 2023. The caller, who introduced himself as “department head of HPCL”, was actually a cunning fraudster. It turns out, the victim had been searching for an LPG agency online, which the fraudster cleverly used to his advantage. In a twisted plot, the fraudster pretended to be looking for potential locations to establish a new LPG cylinder agency in Pune. 

Enthralled by the illusion

The victim fell for the scam, convinced by the mere presence of "HPCL" in the bank account's name. Firstly victim transferred Rs 14,500 online as “registration fees”. Things got worse when, without suspicion, the victim obediently transferred Rs 1,48,200 on September 11 for a so-called "dealership certificate." To add to the charade of legitimacy, the fraudster even sent the victim registration and dealership certificates via email.

Adding to the deception, the fraudster, who had targeted the victim after discovering his online inquiry, requested photos of the victim's property and personal documents, including Aadhaar and PAN cards, educational certificates, and a cancelled cheque. These seemingly legitimate requests only served to reinforce the victim's belief in the scam.

The fraudster said they were looking for a place to allot a new LPG cylinder agency in Pune and would like to see if the victim’s place fits in their criteria. The victim agreed as it was a profitable business opportunity. The fraudster called the victim to “confirm” that his documents have been verified and assured that HPCL would be allotting him an LPG cylinder agency. On September 12, the fraudster again demanded a sum of money, this time for the issuance of an "HPCL license." 

As the victim responded that he did not have the money, the fraudster insisted on an immediate payment of at least 50 per cent of the stipulated amount. So the victim transferred Rs 1,95,200 online. On the following day the 13th of September 2023, the fraudster asked the victim for the remaining amount. The victim said he would arrange the money in a few days. Meanwhile, on the same day, the victim went to the HPCL’s office in the Pune Camp area with the documents he had received through the emails. The HPCL employees confirmed these documents were fake, even though they looked very similar to the originals. The disclosure was a pivotal moment, causing the victim to fully comprehend the magnitude of the deceit and ultimately pursue further measures against the cybercriminal.

Best Practices

• Ensuring Caller Identity- Prioritize confirming the identity of anyone reaching out to you, especially when conducting financial transactions. Hold back from divulging confidential information until you have verified the credibility of the request. 
• Utilize Official Channels- Communicate with businesses or governmental organizations through their verified contact details found on their official websites or trustworthy sources. Avoid solely relying on information gathered from online searches. 
• Maintaining Skepticism with Unsolicited Communication- Exercise caution when approached by unexpected calls or emails, particularly those related to monetary transactions. Beware of manipulative tactics used by scammers to pressure swift decisions.
• Double-Check Information- To ensure accuracy, it is important to validate the information given by the caller on your own. This can be done by double-checking and cross-referencing the details with the official source. If you come across any suspicious activities, do not hesitate to report it to the proper authorities. 
• Report Suspicious Activities- Reporting can aid in conducting investigations and providing assistance to the victim and also preventing similar incidents from occurring.  It is crucially important to promptly report cyber crimes so law enforcement agencies can take appropriate action. A powerful resource available to victims of cybercrime is the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, equipped with a 24x7 helpline number, 1930. This portal serves as a centralized platform for reporting cybercrimes, including financial fraud.

Conclusion

This alarming event serves as a powerful wake-up call to the constant danger posed by online fraud. It is crucial for individuals to remain sceptical, diligently verifying the credibility of unsolicited contacts and steering clear of sharing personal information on the internet. As technology continues to evolve, so do the strategies of cyber criminals, heightening the need for users to stay on guard and knowledgeable in the complex digital world.

References:

• https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/cybercriminal-posing-hindustan-petroleum-official-cheat-pune-man-9081057/
• https://www.timesnownews.com/mirror-now/crime/pune-man-duped-of-rs-3-5-lakh-by-cyber-fraudster-impersonating-hpcl-official-article-106253358