#FactCheck: AI-Generated Audio Falsely Claims COAS Admitted to Loss of 6 Jets and 250 Soldiers

Introduction

In the rapidly evolving landscape of cyber threats, a novel menace has surfaced the concept of Digital Arrest. The impostors impersonating law enforcement officers deceive the victims into believing that their bank account, SIM card, Aadhaar card, or bank card has been used unlawfully. They coerce victims into paying them money. Digital Arrest involves the virtual restraint of individuals. These suspensions can vary from restricted access to the account(s), and digital platforms, to implementing measures to prevent further digital activities or being restrained on video calling or being monitored through video calling. In the era of digitisation where the technology is growing on an exponential phase, various existing loopholes are being utilised by the wrongdoers which has given rise to this sinister trend known as “digital arrest fraud”. In this scam, the defrauder manipulates the victims, who impersonate law enforcement officials and further traps the victims into a web of deception involving threats of imminent digital restraint and coerced financial transactions.   

Recognizing the Danger of Digital Arrest

A recent case involving an interactive voice response (IVR) call that targeted a victim sheds light on the complexities of the "digital arrest" cybercrime. The victim was notified by the scammers—who were pretending to be law enforcement officers—that a SIM card in her name had apparently been utilised in a criminal incident in Mumbai. The call proceeded to a video conversation with an FBI agent who falsely accused her of being involved in money laundering. The victim was forced into a web of dishonesty because she now believed she was involved in a criminal case, underscoring the psychological manipulation these hackers were using.

Recent incidents of digital arrest fraud  

• Recently, a complaint was registered at the Noida Cyber Crime Police Station made by a 50-year-old victim, who was deceived of over Rs 11 lakh and exposed to "digital arrest". By using the identities of an IPS officer in the CBI and the founder of an airline that was grounded, the attackers, masquerading as law enforcement officers, falsely accused the victim of being involved in a fake money-laundering case. She was told that she had another SIM card in her name that was used for fraudulent activities in Mumbai. The complaint made by the victim asserted “Victim’s call was transferred to a person (who identified himself as a Mumbai Police officer) who conducted the initial interrogation over the call and then on Skype VC, where she stayed from 9:30 AM to around 7 in the evening. The woman ended up transferring around ₹11.11 lakh. The scammers then ended contact with her, after which she realised she had been scammed. 
• Another recent case of digital arrest fraud came from Faridabad. Where a 23-year-old girl got a call from a fraudster posing as a Lucknow customs officer. The caller said that a package was being shipped to Cambodia that included cards and passports associated with the victim's Aadhaar number. The victim was forced to believe that she was a part of illegal activity, which included trafficking in humans. Under the guise of police officials, the hackers made up allegations before extorting money from the victim. After that, she was told by a man acting as a CBI official that she needed to pay five per cent of the total which was Rs 15 lakh. She said the cybercriminals instructed her not to log off Skype. In the meantime, she ended up transferring Rs 2.5 lakh to a bank account shared by cybercriminals. 

Measures to protect oneself from digital arrest

Sustaining a practical and observant approach towards cybersecurity is the key to lowering the peril of being targeted and experiencing digital arrest. Following are certain best practices for ensuring the same:

• Cyber Hygiene: This includes maintaining cyber hygiene by regularly updating passwords, and software and also enabling two-factor authentications to reduce the chances of unauthorized access.

• Phishing Attempts: These can be evaded by refraining from clicking on dubious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources and also authenticating the legitimacy of emails and messages before sharing any personal information.

• Secured devices: By installing reputable antivirus and anti-malware solutions and keeping operating systems and applications up to date with the latest security protocols.

• Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): VPNs can be employed to encrypt internet connections thus enhancing privacy and security. However one must be cautious of free VPN services and OTP only for trustworthy providers.  

• Monitor online services: A regular review of online accounts for any unauthorized or unlawful activities and setting up alerts for any changes to account settings or login attempts may help in the early detection of cybercrime and coping with it.

• Secure communication channels: Using secure communication techniques such as encryption can be done for the protection of sensitive information. Sharing of passwords and other information must be cautiously done especially in public forums.

• Awareness: The increasing prevalence of cybercrime known as "digital arrest" underscores the need for preventive measures and increased public awareness. Educational initiatives that draw attention to prevalent cyber threats—especially those that include law enforcement impersonation—can enable people to identify and fend off scams of this kind. The collaboration of law enforcement agencies and telecommunication companies can effectively limit the access points used by fraudsters by identifying and blocking susceptible calls.

Conclusion

The rise of Digital Arrest presents a noteworthy and innovative threat to cybersecurity by taking advantage of people's weaknesses through deceitful impersonation and coercive measures. The case in Noida is a prime example of the boldness and skill of cybercriminals who use fear and false information to trick victims into thinking they are in danger of suffering harsh legal repercussions and taking large amounts of money. In order to combat this increasing cybercrime, people need to take a proactive and watchful stance when it comes to cybersecurity. Cyber hygiene techniques, such as two-factor authentication and frequent password changes, are essential for lowering the possibility of unwanted access. Important precautions include being aware of phishing efforts, protecting devices with reliable antivirus software, and using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to increase privacy. Cybercriminals and fraudsters often use fear as a powerful tool to manipulate people and exploit their vulnerabilities for illicit gains in the realms of cybercrime and financial fraud. To protect themselves against the sneaky threat of Digital Arrest, netizens must traverse the constantly changing cyber threat landscape with collective knowledge, educated practices, and strong cybersecurity measures. 

References:

1. https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/new-cyber-crime-trend-unravelled-in-up-woman-held-under-digital-arrest-123120200485_1.html
2. https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/noida-woman-scammed-11-lakh-in-digital-arrest-scam-everything-you-need-to-know/articleshow/105727970.cms
3. https://m.timesofindia.com/life-style/parenting/moments/23-year-old-faridabad-girl-on-digital-arrest-for-17-days-how-to-protect-your-children-from-cyber-crime/photostory/105442556.cms

Introduction

Quantum technology involves the study of matter and energy at the sub-atomic level. This technology uses superposition and entanglement to provide new capabilities in computing, cryptography and communication and solves problems at speeds not possible with classical computers. Unlike classical bits, qubits can exist in a superposition of states, representing 0, 1, or any combination of these states simultaneously. The Union Cabinet approved the National Quantum Mission on 19 April 2023, with a budget allocation of Rs 6000 Crore. The mission will seed, nourish, and scale up scientific and industrial R&D in the domain of quantum technology so that India emerges as one of the leaders in developing quantum technologies and their applications. 

The Union Minister for Science and Technology and Minister of Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the selection of 8 start-ups for support under India’s National Quantum Mission and the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). The selected start-ups represent diverse quantum tech domains and were chosen via a rigorous evaluation process. These startups are poised to be critical enablers in translating quantum research into practical applications. This start-up selection aligns with India’s broader vision for technological self-reliance and innovation by 2047. 

Policy Landscape and Vision

The National Quantum Mission’s main goal is to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits in 8 years, across diverse platforms such as superconducting and photonic technology. The mission deliverables include the development of satellite-based secure quantum communications between ground stations over a range of 2000 km within India, long-distance secure quantum communications with other countries, inter-city quantum key distribution over 2000 km, and multi-node quantum networks with quantum memories.

The National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems aims to promote translational research in Cyber-Physical Systems and associated technologies and prototypes and demonstrates applications for national priorities. The other expectations are enhancing the top-of-the-line research base, human resource development and skill sets in these emerging areas. These missions align with India’s broader ideals such as the Digital India and Make in India campaigns to strengthen India’s technological ecosystem. 

Selected Startups and Their Innovations

The startups selected reflect alignment with India’s National Quantum Mission, oriented towards fostering cutting-edge research and innovation and have industrial applications aiming at placing India as the global leader in quantum technology. The selections are:

• QNu Labs (Bengaluru): is advancing quantum communication by developing end-to-end quantum-safe heterogeneous networks.
• QPiAI India Pvt. Ltd. (Bengaluru): is building a superconducting quantum computer.
• Dimira Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (IIT Mumbai):  is creating indigenous cryogenic cables, essential for quantum computing.
• Prenishq Pvt. Ltd. (IIT Delhi): developing precision diode-laser systems.
• QuPrayog Pvt. Ltd. (Pune): is working on creating optical atomic clocks and related technologies.
• Quanastra Pvt. Ltd. (Delhi): is developing advanced cryogenics and superconducting detectors.
• Pristine Diamonds Pvt. Ltd. (Ahmedabad): is creating diamond materials for quantum sensing.
• Quan2D Technologies Pvt. Ltd. (Bengaluru): is making advancements in superconducting Nanowire Single-photon Detectors.

References

• https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2077635 
• https://www.csis.org/analysis/quantum-technology-applications-and-implications ‍
• https://dst.gov.in/national-quantum-mission-nqm

Introduction

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Purchasing online currencies through one of the numerous sizable digital marketplaces designed specifically for this purpose is the simplest method. The quantity of cryptocurrency and money paid. These online marketplaces impose an exchange fee. After being obtained, digital cash is stored in a digital wallet and can be used in the metaverse or as real money to make purchases of goods and services in the real world. Blockchain ensures the security and decentralisation of each exchange. 

Its worth and application are comparable to those of gold: when a large number of investors choose this valuable asset, its value increases and vice versa. This also applies to cryptocurrencies, which explains why they have become so popular in recent years. The metaphysical realm is an online space where users can communicate with one another via virtual personas, among other features. Furthermore, money and commerce always come up when people communicate. 

Web3 is welcoming the metaverse, and in an environment where conventional currency isn't functional, its technologies are making it possible to use cryptocurrencies. Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) can be used to monitor intellectual rights to ownership in the metaverse, while cryptocurrencies are used to pay for content and incentivise consumers. This write-up addresses what the metaverse crypto is. It also delves into the advantages, disadvantages, and applications of crypto in this context. 

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Convergence of Metaverse and Cryptocurrency

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As the main form of digital money in the Metaverse, digital currencies can be used to do business and exchange in the digital realm. The term "metaverse" describes a simulation of reality where users can communicate in real time with other users and an environment created by computers. The acquisition and exchange of virtual products, virtual possessions, and electronic creativity within the Metaverse can all be made possible via cryptocurrency. 

Many digital currencies are based on blockchain software, which can offer an accessible and safe way to confirm payments and manage digital currencies in the Metaverse. By giving consumers vouchers or other electronic currencies in exchange for their accomplishments or contributions, cryptocurrency might encourage consumer engagement and involvement in the Metaverse.

In the Metaverse, cryptocurrency can also facilitate portable connectivity, enabling users to move commodities and their worth between various virtual settings and platforms.

The idea of fragmentation in the Metaverse, where participants have more ownership and control over their virtual worlds, is consistent with the decentralised characteristics of cryptocurrencies.

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Advantages of Metaverse Cryptocurrency

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There are countless opportunities for creativity and discovery in the metaverse. Because the blockchain is accessible to everyone, unchangeable, and password-protected, metaverse-centric cryptocurrencies offer greater safety and adaptability than cash. Crypto will be crucial to the evolution of the metaverse as it keeps growing and more individuals show interest in using it. Here are a few of the variables influencing the growth of this new virtual environment.

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Safety

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Your Bitcoin wallet is intimately linked to your personal information, progress, and metaverse possessions. Additionally, if your digital currency wallet is compromised, especially if your account credentials are weak, public, or connected to your real-world identity, cybercriminals may try to steal your money or personal data. 

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Adaptability

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Digital assets can be accessed and exchanged worldwide due to cryptocurrencies’ ability to transcend national borders. By utilising a local cryptocurrency, many metaverse platforms streamline transactions and eliminate the need for frequent currency conversions between various digital or fiat currencies. Another advantage of using autonomous contract languages is for metaverse cryptos. When consumers make transactions within the network, applications do away with the need for administrative middlemen.

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Objectivity

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By exposing interactions in a publicly accessible distributed database, the use of blockchain improves accountability. It is more difficult for dishonest people to raise the cost of digital goods and land since Bitcoin transactions are public. Metaverse cryptocurrencies are frequently employed to control project modifications. The outcomes of these legislative elections are made public using digital contracts. 

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NFT, Virtual worlds, and Digital currencies  

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Using the NFT is an additional method of using Bitcoin for metaverse transactions. These are distinct electronic documents that have significant potential value.  

A creator must convert an electronic work of art into a virtual object or virtual world if they want to display it digitally in the metaverse. Artists produce one-of-a-kind, serialised pieces that are given an NFT that may be acquired through Bitcoin payments. 

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Applications of Metaverse Cryptography

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Fiat money or independent virtual currencies like Robux are used by Web 2 metaverse initiatives to pay for goods, real estate, and services. Fiat lacked the adaptability of cryptocurrencies with automated contract capabilities, even though it may be used to pay for goods and finance the creation of projects. Users can stake these within the network virtual currencies to administer distributed metaverses, and they have all the same functions as fiat currency.

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Banking operations

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Lending digital cash to purchase metaverse land is possible. Banks that have already made inroads into the metaverse include HSBC and JPMorgan, both of which possess virtual real estate. "We are making our foray into the metaverse, allowing us to create innovative brand experiences for both new and existing customers," said Suresh Balaji, chief marketing officer for HSBC in Asia-Pacific.

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Purchasing

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An increasingly important aspect of the metaverse is online commerce. Users can interact with real-world brands, tour simulated malls, and try on virtual apparel for their characters. Adidas, for instance, debuted an NFT line in 2021 that included customizable peripherals for the Sandbox. Buyers of NFTs crossed the line separating the virtual universe and the actual world to obtain the tangible goods associated with their NFTs.

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Authority

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Metaverse initiatives are frequently governed by cryptocurrency. Decentraland, a well-known Ethereum-based metaverse featuring virtual reality components, permits users to submit and vote on suggestions provided they own specific tokens.

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Conclusion

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The combination of the virtual world and cryptocurrencies creates novel opportunities for trade, innovation, and communication. The benefits of using the blockchain system are increased objectivity, safety, and flexibility. By facilitating exclusive ownership of digital assets, NFTs enhance metaverse immersion even more. In the metaverse, cryptocurrencies are used in banking, shopping, and government, forming a user-driven, autonomous digital world. The combination of cryptocurrencies and the metaverse will revolutionise how we interact with online activities, creating a dynamic environment that presents both opportunities and difficulties.

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References

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• https://www.telefonica.com/en/communication-room/blog/metaverse-and-cryptocurrencies-what-is-their-relationship/
• https://hedera.com/learning/metaverse/metaverse-crypto
• https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/unleashing-power-connection-between-cryptocurrency-ai-amit-chandra/

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