Centre Proposes New Bills for Criminal Law
Introduction
Criminal justice in India is majorly governed by three laws which are – Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code and Indian Evidence Act. The centre, on 11th August 2023’ Friday, proposes a new bill in parliament Friday, which is replacing the country’s major criminal laws, i.e. Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code and Indian Evidence Act.
The following three bills are being proposed to replace major criminal laws in the country:
- The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, 2023 to replace Indian Penal Code 1860.
- The Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita Bill, 2023, to replace The Code Of Criminal Procedure, 1973.
- The Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, 2023, to replace The Indian Evidence Act 1872.
Cyber law-oriented view of the new shift in criminal lawNotable changes:Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, 2023 Indian Penal Code 1860.
Way ahead for digitalisation
The new laws aim to enhance the utilisation of digital services in court systems, it facilitates online registration of FIR, Online filing of the charge sheet, serving summons in electronic mode, trial and proceedings in electronic mode etc. The new bills also allow the virtual appearance of witnesses, accused, experts, and victims in some instances. This shift will lead to the adoption of technology in courts and all courts to be computerised in the upcoming time.
Enhanced recognition of electronic records
With the change in lifestyle in terms of the digital sphere, significance is given to recognising electronic records as equal to paper records.
Conclusion
The criminal laws of the country play a significant role in establishing law & order and providing justice. The criminal laws of India were the old laws existing under British rule. There have been several amendments to criminal laws to deal with the growing crimes and new aspects. However, there was a need for well-established criminal laws which are in accordance with the present era. The step of the legislature by centralising all criminal laws in their new form and introducing three bills is a good approach which will ultimately strengthen the criminal justice system in India, and it will also facilitate the use of technology in the court system.
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Introduction
The unprecedented cyber espionage attempt on the Indian Air Force has shocked the military fraternity in the age of the internet where innovation is vital to national security. The attackers have shown a high degree of expertise in their techniques, using a variant of the infamous Go Stealer and current military acquisition pronouncements as a cover to obtain sensitive information belonging to the Indian Air Force. In this recent cyber espionage revelation, the Indian Air Force faces a sophisticated attack leveraging the infamous Go Stealer malware. The timing, coinciding with the Su-30 MKI fighter jets' procurement announcement, raises serious questions about possible national security espionage actions.
A sophisticated attack using the Go Stealer malware exploits defense procurement details, notably the approval of 12 Su-30 MKI fighter jets. Attackers employ a cunningly named ZIP file, "SU-30_Aircraft_Procurement," distributed through an anonymous platform, Oshi, taking advantage of heightened tension surrounding defense procurement.
Advanced Go Stealer Variant:
The malware, coded in Go language, introduces enhancements, including expanded browser targeting and a unique data exfiltration method using Slack, showcasing a higher level of sophistication.
Strategic Targeting of Indian Air Force Professionals:
The attack strategically focuses on extracting login credentials and cookies from specific browsers, revealing the threat actor's intent to gather precise and sensitive information.
Timing Raises Espionage Concerns:
The cyber attack coincides with the Indian Government's Su-30 MKI fighter jets procurement announcement, raising suspicions of targeted attacks or espionage activities.
The Deceitful ZIP ArchiveSU-30 Aircraft Acquisition
The cyberattack materialised as a sequence of painstakingly planned actions. Using the cleverly disguised ZIP file "SU-30_Aircraft_Procurement," the perpetrators took benefit of the authorisation of 12 Su-30 MKI fighter jets by the Indian Defense Ministry in September 2023. Distributed via the anonymous file storage network Oshi, the fraudulent file most certainly made its way around via spam emails or other forms of correspondence.
The Spread of Infection and Go Stealer Payload:
The infiltration procedure progressed through a ZIP file to an ISO file, then to a.lnk file, which finally resulted in the Go Stealer payload being released. This Go Stealer version, written in the programming language Go, adds sophisticated capabilities, such as a wider range of browsing focussed on and a cutting-edge technique for collecting information using the popular chat app Slack.
Superior Characteristics of the Go Stealer Version
Different from its GitHub equivalent, this Go Stealer version exhibits a higher degree of complexity. It creates a log file in the machine owned by the victim when it is executed and makes use of GoLang utilities like GoReSym for in-depth investigation. The malware focuses on cookies and usernames and passwords from web browsers, with a particular emphasis on Edge, Brave, and Google Chrome.
This kind is unique in that it is more sophisticated. Its deployment's cyber enemies have honed its strengths, increasing its potency and detection resistance. Using GoLang tools like GoReSym for comprehensive evaluation demonstrates the threat actors' careful planning and calculated technique.
Go Stealer: Evolution of Threat
The Go Stealer first appeared as a free software project on GitHub and quickly became well-known for its capacity to stealthily obtain private data from consumers who aren't paying attention. Its effectiveness and stealthy design rapidly attracted the attention of cyber attackers looking for a sophisticated tool for clandestine data exfiltration. It was written in the Go programming language.
Several cutting-edge characteristics distinguish the Go Stealer from other conventional data thieves. From the beginning, it showed a strong emphasis on browser focusing on, seeking to obtain passwords and login information from particular websites including Edge, Brave, and Google Chrome.The malware's initial iteration was nurtured on the GitHub database, which has the Go Stealer initial edition. Threat actors have improved and altered the code to serve their evil goals, even if the basic structure is freely accessible.
The Go Stealer version that has been discovered as the cause of the current internet spying by the Indian Air Force is not limited to its GitHub roots. It adds features that make it more dangerous, like a wider range of browsers that may be targeted and a brand-new way to exfiltrate data via Slack, a popular messaging app.
Secret Communications and Information Expulsion
This variation is distinguished by its deliberate usage of the Slack API for secret chats. Slack was chosen because it is widely used in company networks and allows harmful activity to blend in with normal business traffic. The purpose of the function "main_Vulpx" is specifically to upload compromised information to the attacker's Slack route, allowing for covert data theft and communication.
The Time and Strategic Objective
There are worries about targeted assaults or espionage activities due to the precise moment of the cyberattack, which coincides with the Indian government's declaration of its acquisition of Su-30 MKI fighter fighters. The deliberate emphasis on gathering cookies and login passwords from web browsers highlights the threat actor's goal of obtaining accurate and private data from Indian Air Force personnel.
Using Caution: Preventing Possible Cyber Espionage
- Alertness Against Misleading Techniques: Current events highlight the necessity of being on the lookout for files that appear harmless but actually have dangerous intent. The Su-30 Acquisition ZIP file is a stark illustration of how these kinds of data might be included in larger-scale cyberespionage campaigns.
- Potentially Wider Impact: Cybercriminals frequently plan coordinated operations to target not just individuals but potentially many users and government officials. Compromised files increase the likelihood of a serious cyber-attack by opening the door for larger attack vectors.
- Important Position in National Security: Recognize the crucial role people play in the backdrop of national security in the age of digitalisation. Organised assaults carry the risk of jeopardising vital systems and compromising private data.
- Establish Strict Download Guidelines: Implement a strict rule requiring file downloads to only come from reputable and confirmed providers. Be sceptical, particularly when you come across unusual files, and make sure the sender is legitimate before downloading any attachments.
- Literacy among Government Employees: Acknowledge that government employees are prime targets as they have possession of private data. Enable people by providing them with extensive cybersecurity training and awareness that will increase their cognition and fortitude.
Conclusion
Indian Air Force cyber surveillance attack highlights how sophisticated online dangers have become in the digital era. Threat actors' deliberate and focused approach is demonstrated by the deceptive usage of a ZIP archive that is camouflaged and paired with a sophisticated instance of the Go Stealer virus. An additional level of complication is introduced by integrating Slack for covert communication. Increased awareness, strict installation guidelines, and thorough cybersecurity education for government employees are necessary to reduce these threats. In the digital age, protecting national security necessitates ongoing adaptation as well as safeguards toward ever-more potent and cunning cyber threats.
References
- https://www.overtoperator.com/p/indianairforcemalwaretargetpotential
- https://cyberunfolded.in/blog/indian-air-force-targeted-in-sophisticated-cyber-attack-with-su-30-procurement-zip-file#go-stealer-a-closer-look-at-its-malicious-history
- https://thecyberexpress.com/cyberattack-on-the-indian-air-force/https://therecord.media/indian-air-force-infostealing-malware
Executive Summary:
Social media has been overwhelmed by a viral post that claims Indian Railways is beginning to install solar panels directly on railway tracks all over the country for renewable energy purposes. The claim also purports that India will become the world's first country to undertake such a green effort in railway systems. Our research involved extensive reverse image searching, keyword analysis, government website searches, and global media verification. We found the claim to be completely false. The viral photos and information are all incorrectly credited to India. The images are actually from a pilot project by a Swiss start-up called Sun-Ways.
Claim:
According to a viral post on social media, Indian Railways has started an all-India initiative to install solar panels directly on railway tracks to generate renewable energy, limit power expenses, and make global history in environmentally sustainable rail operations.
Fact check:
We did a reverse image search of the viral image and were soon directed to international media and technology blogs referencing a project named Sun-Ways, based in Switzerland. The images circulated on Indian social media were the exact ones from the Sun-Ways pilot project, whereby a removable system of solar panels is being installed between railway tracks in Switzerland to evaluate the possibility of generating energy from rail infrastructure.
We also thoroughly searched all the official Indian Railways websites, the Ministry of Railways news article, and credible Indian media. At no point did we locate anything mentioning Indian Railways engaging or planning something similar by installing solar panels on railway tracks themselves.
Indian Railways has been engaged in green energy initiatives beyond just solar panel installation on program rooftops, and also on railway land alongside tracks and on train coach roofs. However, Indian Railways have never installed solar panels on railway tracks in India. Meanwhile, we found a report of solar panel installations on the train launched on 14th July 2025, first solar-powered DEMU (diesel electrical multiple unit) train from the Safdarjung railway station in Delhi. The train will run from Sarai Rohilla in Delhi to Farukh Nagar in Haryana. A total of 16 solar panels, each producing 300 Wp, are fitted in six coaches.
We also found multiple links to support our claim from various media links: Euro News, World Economy Forum, Institute of Mechanical Engineering, and NDTV.
Conclusion:
After extensive research conducted through several phases including examining facts and some technical facts, we can conclude that the claim that Indian Railways has installed solar panels on railway tracks is false. The concept and images originate from Sun-Ways, a Swiss company that was testing this concept in Switzerland, not India.
Indian Railways continues to use renewable energy in a number of forms but has not put any solar panels on railway tracks. We want to highlight how important it is to fact-check viral content and other unverified content.
- Claim: India’s solar track project will help Indian Railways run entirely on renewable energy.
- Claimed On: Social Media
- Fact Check: False and Misleading
Introduction
A recent massive scam has been uncovered in the Indian state of Gujarat, where the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has blacklisted 30,000 SIM cards that were used for illegal activities. The scam has created a huge uproar in the state, and its implications are significant. In this blog, we will discuss the details of the Gujarat scam and its impact on the state.
What is sim card fraud?
Sim card fraud occurs when someone uses a fake or cloned sim card to impersonate someone else. This allows the fraudster to gain access to sensitive information or conduct transactions on behalf of the victim. The use of fraudulent sim cards has become increasingly common in recent years, with scammers targeting individuals and businesses around the world.
The Gujarat Scam: The Gujarat scam involves the use of SIM cards for illegal activities such as extortion, blackmail, and cybercrime. The CID has identified that the SIM cards were obtained using fake documents and were used for illegal activities. The scam has been happening for a while, involving several individuals, including businessmen, politicians, and government officials.
The CID has conducted raids across the state and has arrested several individuals involved in the scam. They have also seized a significant amount of cash, mobile phones, and other electronic devices used for illegal activities. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are expected in the coming days.
The Gujarat scam is not an isolated incident, as similar scams have been reported in other parts of the country. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has also reported that several telecom operators are not following the regulations and are not verifying the authenticity of documents used to obtain SIM cards.
Impact on the State: The Gujarat scam has caused significant damage to the state’s reputation, and it has also affected the economy. The scam has highlighted the lack of regulation in the telecom industry, and it has exposed the loopholes in the system that criminals are exploiting.
The blacklisting of 30,000 SIM cards will affect several individuals who may have obtained them legally but were unaware of their use for illegal activities. The blacklisting may also impact businesses that rely on mobile phones for their operations.
The scam has also raised concerns about personal information and data safety. With the use of fake documents to obtain SIM cards, it is evident that personal information is not secure and can be easily misused. The government needs to take steps to ensure that personal information is protected and that the telecom industry is regulated to prevent such scams from happening in the future.
Steps Taken by the Government: The Gujarat scam has prompted the government to take action to prevent such incidents from happening in the future. The government has announced that it will implement stricter regulations in the telecom industry to prevent the misuse of SIM cards. The government has also announced that it will introduce a system to verify the authenticity of documents used to obtain SIM cards.
The government has also urged citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to the misuse of SIM cards. The government has assured citizens that it will take strict action against those involved in the scam and that it will ensure the safety of personal information and data.
The TRAI has also taken steps to address the issue. It has directed telecom operators to verify the authenticity of documents used to obtain SIM cards and to follow the regulations. The TRAI has also introduced a new system to identify and deactivate inactive SIM cards.
Here are some key takeaways from the Gujarat Sim scam: These takeaways should be kept in mind to prevent such incidents from happening in the future and to ensure the safety of citizens and businesses.
Need for Stricter Regulations: The Gujarat Sim scam has highlighted the need for stricter regulations in the telecom industry. The government needs to ensure that telecom operators follow the regulations and verify the authenticity of documents used to obtain SIM cards. This will help prevent the misuse of SIM cards and illegal activities.
Importance of Personal Information Security: The scam has raised concerns about personal information and data safety. It is important to ensure that personal information is protected and that the telecom industry is regulated to prevent such scams from happening in the future.
Impact on Reputation and Economy: The Gujarat scam has caused significant damage to the state’s reputation, and it has also affected the economy. The blacklisting of 30,000 SIM cards will impact several individuals who may have obtained them legally but were unaware of their use for illegal activities. The scam has also raised concerns about the safety of businesses that rely on mobile phones for their operations.
Need for Vigilance: The government has urged citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to the misuse of SIM cards. It is important for citizens to be aware of the regulations and to report any illegal activities to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
Strong Action Against Criminals: The blacklisting of 30,000 SIM cards and the arrests made by the CID sends a strong message to those involved in illegal activities that they will not be spared. It is important for the government to take strict action against those involved in the scam to deter others from engaging in such activities.
Conclusion
The Gujarat scam has exposed vulnerabilities in the telecom industry and highlighted the need for stricter regulations to prevent such incidents from happening in the future. The blacklisting of 30,000 SIM cards has sent a strong message to those involved in illegal activities that they will not be spared. The government’s efforts to implement stricter regulations and ensure the safety of personal information and data are commendable. It is now up to the citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
The telecom industry plays a vital role in the country’s development, and it is important to ensure that it is regulated to prevent the misuse of its services. Overall, the Gujarat Sim scam has highlighted the need for stricter regulations, personal information security, vigilance, and strong action against criminals.
