#FactCheck - Viral Claim of Highway in J&K Proven Misleading

Introduction

The ongoing armed conflict between Israel and Hamas/ Palestine is in the news all across the world. The latest conflict was triggered by unprecedented attacks against Israel by Hamas militants on October 7, killing thousands of people. Israel has launched a massive counter-offensive against the Islamic militant group. Amid the war, the bad information and propaganda spreading on various social media platforms, tech researchers have detected a network of 67 accounts that posted false content about the war and received millions of views. The ‘European Commission’ has sent a letter to Elon Musk, directing them to remove illegal content and disinformation; otherwise, penalties can be imposed. The European Commission has formally requested information from several social media giants on their handling of content related to the Israel-Hamas war. This widespread disinformation impacts and triggers the nature of war and also impacts the world and affects the goodwill of the citizens. The bad group, in this way, weaponise the information and fuels online hate activity, terrorism and extremism, flooding political polarisation with hateful content on social media. Online misinformation about the war is inciting extremism, violence, hate and different propaganda-based ideologies. The online information environment surrounding this conflict is being flooded with disinformation and misinformation, which amplifies the nature of war and too many fake narratives and videos are flooded on social media platforms.

Response of social media platforms 

As there is a proliferation of online misinformation and violent content surrounding the war, It imposes a question on social media companies in terms of content moderation and other policy shifts.  It is notable that Instagram, Facebook and X(Formerly Twitter) all have certain features in place giving users the ability to decide what content they want to view. They also allow for limiting the potentially sensitive content from being displayed in search results.

The experts say that It is of paramount importance to get a sort of control in this regard and define what is permissible online and what is not, Hence, what is required is expertise to determine the situation, and most importantly, It requires robust content moderation policies. 

During wartime, people who are aggrieved or provoked are often targeted by this internet disinformation that blends ideological beliefs and spreads conspiracy theories and hatred. This is not a new phenomenon, it is often observed that disinformation-spreading groups emerged and became active during such war and emergency times and spread disinformation and propaganda-based ideologies and influence the society at large by misrepresenting the facts and planted stories. Social media has made it easier to post user-generated content without properly moderating it. However, it is a shared responsibility of tech companies, users, government guidelines and policies to collectively define and follow certain mechanisms to fight against disinformation and misinformation.  

Digital Services Act (DSA)

The newly enacted EU law, i.e. Digital Services Act, pushes various larger online platforms to prevent posts containing illegal content and also puts limits on targeted advertising. DSA enables to challenge the of illegal online content and also poses requirements to prevent misinformation and disinformation and ensure more transparency over what the users see on the platforms. Rules under the DSA cover everything from content moderation & user privacy to transparency in operations. DSA is a landmark EU legislation moderating online platforms.  Large tech platforms are now subject to content-related regulation under this new EU law ‘The Digital Services Act’, which also requires them to prevent the spread of misinformation and disinformation and overall ensure a safer online environment.

Indian Scenario

The Indian government introduced the Intermediary Guidelines (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, updated in 2023 which talks about the establishment of a "fact check unit" to identify false or misleading online content. Digital Personal Data Protection, 2023 has also been enacted which aims to protect personal data. The upcoming Digital India bill is also proposed to be tabled in the parliament, this act will replace the current Information & Technology Act, of 2000. The upcoming Digital India bill can be seen as future-ready legislation to strengthen India’s current cybersecurity posture. It will comprehensively deal with the aspects of ensuring privacy, data protection, and fighting growing cyber crimes in the evolving digital landscape and ensuring a safe digital environment. Certain other entities including civil societies are also actively engaged in fighting misinformation and spreading awareness for safe and responsible use of the Internet. 

Conclusion:

The widespread disinformation and misinformation content amid the Israel-Hamas war showcases how user-generated content on social media shows you the illusion of reality. There is widespread misinformation, misleading content or posts on social media platforms, and misuse of new advanced AI technologies that even make it easier for bad actors to create synthetic media content. It is also notable that social media has connected us like never before. Social media is a great platform with billions of active social media users around the globe, it offers various conveniences and opportunities to individuals and businesses. It is just certain aspects that require the attention of all of us to prevent the bad use of social media. The social media platforms and regulatory authorities need to be vigilant and active in clearly defining and improving the policies for content regulation and safe and responsible use of social media which can effectively combat and curtail the bad actors from misusing social media for their bad motives. As a user, it's the responsibility of users to exercise certain duties and promote responsible use of social media. With the increasing penetration of social media and the internet, misinformation is rampant all across the world and remains a global issue which needs to be addressed properly by implementing strict policies and adopting best practices to fight the misinformation. Users are encouraged to flag and report misinformative or misleading content on social media and should always verify it from authentic sources. Hence creating a safer Internet environment for everyone.

References:

• https://abcnews.go.com/US/experts-fear-hate-extremism-social-media-israel-hamas-war/story?id=104221215
• https://edition.cnn.com/2023/10/14/tech/social-media-misinformation-israel-hamas/index.html
• https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/13/business/israel-hamas-misinformation-social-media-x.html
• https://www.africanews.com/2023/10/24/fact-check-misinformation-about-the-israel-hamas-war-is-flooding-social-media-here-are-the//
• https://www.theverge.com/23845672/eu-digital-services-act-explained

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Introduction

In the labyrinthine expanse of the digital age, where the ethereal threads of our connections weave a tapestry of virtual existence, there lies a sinister phenomenon that preys upon the vulnerabilities of human emotion and trust. This phenomenon, known as cyber kidnapping, recently ensnared a 17-year-old Chinese exchange student, Kai Zhuang, in its deceptive grip, leading to an $80,000 extortion from his distraught parents. The chilling narrative of Zhuang found cold and scared in a tent in the Utah wilderness, serves as a stark reminder of the pernicious reach of cybercrime.

The Cyber Kidnapping 

The term 'cyber kidnapping' typically denotes a form of cybercrime where malefactors gain unauthorised access to computer systems or data, holding it hostage for ransom. Yet, in the context of Zhuang's ordeal, it took on a more harrowing dimension—a psychological manipulation through online communication that convinced his family of his peril, despite his physical safety before the scam.

The Incident 

The incident unfolded like a modern-day thriller, with Zhuang's parents in China alerting officials at his host high school in Riverdale, Utah, of his disappearance on 28 December 2023. A meticulous investigation ensued, tracing bank records, purchases, and phone data, leading authorities to Zhuang's isolated encampment, 25 miles north of Brigham City. In the frigid embrace of Utah's winter, Zhuang awaited rescue, armed only with a heat blanket, a sleeping bag, limited provisions, and the very phones used to orchestrate his cyber kidnapping.

Upon his rescue, Zhuang's first requests were poignantly human—a warm cheeseburger and a conversation with his family, who had been manipulated into paying the hefty ransom during the cyber-kidnapping scam. This incident not only highlights the emotional toll of such crimes but also the urgent need for awareness and preventative measures.

The Aftermath

To navigate the treacherous waters of cyber threats, one must adopt the scepticism of a seasoned detective when confronted with unsolicited messages that reek of urgency or threat. The verification of identities becomes a crucial shield, a bulwark against deception. Sharing sensitive information online is akin to casting pearls before swine, where once relinquished, control is lost forever. Privacy settings on social media are the ramparts that must be fortified, and the education of family and friends becomes a communal armour against the onslaught of cyber threats.

The Chinese embassy in Washington has sounded the alarm, warning its citizens in the U.S. about the risks of 'virtual kidnapping' and other online frauds. This scam fragments a larger criminal mosaic that threatens to ensnare parents worldwide.

Kai Zhuang's story, while unique in its details, is not an isolated event. Experts warn that technological advancements have made it easier for criminals to pursue cyber kidnapping schemes. The impersonation of loved ones' voices using artificial intelligence, the mining of social media for personal data, and the spoofing of phone numbers are all tools in the cyber kidnapper's arsenal.

The Way Forward

The crimes have evolved, targeting not just the vulnerable but also those who might seem beyond reach, demanding larger ransoms and leaving a trail of psychological devastation in their wake. Cybercrime, as one expert chillingly notes, may well be the most lucrative of crimes, transcending borders, languages, and identities.

In the face of such threats, awareness is the first line of defense. Reporting suspicious activity to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center, verifying the whereabouts of loved ones, and establishing emergency protocols are all steps that can fortify one's digital fortress. Telecommunications companies and law enforcement agencies also have a role to play in authenticating and tracing the source of calls, adding another layer of protection.

Conclusion

The surreal experience of reading about cyber kidnapping belies the very real danger it poses. It is a crime that thrives in the shadows of our interconnected world, a reminder that our digital lives are as vulnerable as our physical ones. As we navigate this complex web, let us arm ourselves with knowledge, vigilance, and the resolve to protect not just our data, but the very essence of our human connections.

References 

• https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-67869517
• https://www.ndtv.com/feature/what-is-cyber-kidnapping-and-how-it-can-be-avoided-4792135

Introduction

The Telecommunications Act of 2023 was passed by Parliament in December, receiving the President's assent and being published in the official Gazette on December 24, 2023. The act is divided into 11 chapters 62 sections and 3 schedules. Sections 1, 2, 10-30, 42-44, 46, 47, 50-58, 61 and 62 already took effect on June 26, 2024. 

On July 04, 2024, the Centre issued a Gazetted Notification and sections 6-8, 48 and 59(b) were notified to be effective from July 05, 2024. The Act aims to amend and consolidate the laws related to telecommunication services, telecommunication networks, and spectrum assignment and it ‘repeals’ certain older colonial-era legislations like the Indian Telegraph Act 1885 and Indian Wireless Telegraph Act 1933. Due to the advancements in technology in the telecom sector, the new law is enacted. 

On 18 July 2024 Thursday, the telecom minister while launching the theme of Indian Mobile Congress (IMC), announced that all rules and provisions of the new Telecom Act would be notified within the next 180 days, hence making the Act operational at full capacity. 

Important definitions under Telecommunications Act, 2023

1. Authorisation: Section 2(d) entails “authorisation” means a permission, by whatever name called, granted under this Act for— (i) providing telecommunication services; (ii) establishing, operating, maintaining or expanding telecommunication networks; or (iii) possessing radio equipment.
2. Telecommunication: Section 2(p) entails “Telecommunication” means transmission, emission or reception of any messages, by wire, radio, optical or other electro-magnetic systems, whether or not such messages have been subjected to rearrangement, computation or other processes by any means in the course of their transmission, emission or reception.
3. Telecommunication Network: Section 2(s) entails “telecommunication network” means a system or series of systems of telecommunication equipment or infrastructure, including terrestrial or satellite networks or submarine networks, or a combination of such networks, used or intended to be used for providing telecommunication services, but does not include such telecommunication equipment as notified by the Central Government.
4. Telecommunication Service: Section 2(t) entails “telecommunication service” means any service for telecommunication.

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Measures for Cyber Security for the Telecommunication Network/Services

Section 22 of the Telecommunication Act, 2023 talks about the protection of telecommunication networks and telecommunication services. The section specifies that the centre may provide rules to ensure the cybersecurity of telecommunication networks and telecommunication services. Such measures may include the collection, analysis and dissemination of traffic data that is generated, transmitted, received or stored in telecommunication networks. ‘Traffic data’ can include any data generated, transmitted, received, or stored in telecommunication networks – such as type, duration, or time of a telecommunication. 

Section 22 further empowers the central government to declare any telecommunication network, or part thereof, as Critical Telecommunication Infrastructure. It may further provide for standards, security practices, upgradation requirements and procedures to be implemented for such Critical Telecommunication Infrastructure. 

CyberPeace Policy Wing Outlook:

The Telecommunication Act, 2023 marks a significant change & growth in the telecom sector by providing a robust regulatory framework, encouraging research and development, promoting infrastructure development, and measures for consumer protection. The Central Government is empowered to authorize individuals for (a) providing telecommunication services, (b) establishing, operating, maintaining, or expanding telecommunication networks, or (c) possessing radio equipment. Section 48 of the act provides no person shall possess or use any equipment that blocks telecommunication unless permitted by the Central Government. 

The Central Government will protect users by implementing different measures, such as the requirement of prior consent of users for receiving particular messages, keeping a 'Do Not Disturb' register to stop unwanted messages, the mechanism to enable users to report any malware or specified messages received, the preparation and maintenance of “Do Not Disturb” register, to ensure that users do not receive specified messages or class of specified messages without prior consent. The authorized entity providing telecommunication services will also be required to create an online platform for users for their grievances pertaining to telecommunication services. 

In certain limited circumstances such as national security measures, disaster management and public safety, the act contains provisions empowering the Government to take temporary possession of telecom services or networks from authorised entity; direct interception or disclosure of messages, with measures to be specified in rulemaking. This entails that the government gains additional controls in case of emergencies to ensure security and public order. However, this has to be balanced with appropriate measures protecting individual privacy rights and avoiding any unintended arbitrary actions. 

Taking into account the cyber security in the telecommunication sector, the government is empowered under the act to introduce standards for cyber security for telecommunication services and telecommunication networks; and encryption and data processing in telecommunication. 

The act also promotes the research and development and pilot projects under Digital Bharat Nidhi. The act also promotes the approach of digital by design by bringing online dispute resolution and other frameworks. Overall the approach of the government is noteworthy as they realise the need for updating the colonial era legislation considering the importance of technological advancements and keeping pace with the digital and technical revolution in the telecommunication sector. 

References:

1. The Telecommunications Act, 2023 https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:AP:88cb04ff-2cce-4663-ad41-88aafc81a416
2. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2031057
3. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2027941
4. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/telecom/telecom-news/new-telecom-act-will-be-notified-in-180-days-bsnl-4g-rollout-is-monitored-on-a-daily-basis-scindia/articleshow/111851845.cms?from=mdr
5. https://www.azbpartners.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Update-Staggered-Enforcement-of-Telecommunications-Act-2023.pdf
6. https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/blog/analysing-the-impact-of-telecommunications-act-2023-on-digital-india-mission/111828226

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