#FactCheck-No Evidence India Returned Iranian Oil After Trump-Modi Call

Introduction
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Rapid growth in India’s Digital Economy has opened up various options for companies to utilise digital technology as part of their operations. Examples of these technologies include cloud computing; online payment systems; digitally enabled supply chains; and platforms that facilitate remote working. As small and medium enterprises(SMEs) represent a major part of India’s economy, they have quickly been able to capitalise on the benefits these technologies provide in improving their operational efficiency and developing an increased presence within the market. However, this rapid pace of digitalisation creates an exposure to a much greater breadth of cyber-security threats than ever for SMEs. Today, perhaps the greatest cyber-threat facing SMEs in India is ransomware, an increasing frequent type of cyber-attack that has been increasing on a global scale over the past few years and in response, there have been numerous initiatives by various government agencies, industry organisations, and cyber-security firms designed to educate the general public on the risks of ransomware. 

What is Ransomware?
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Ransomware is a type of malware, which prevents all users being able to access their file system or access their data until they pay a ransom. In a standard ransomware event an attacker will breach the company's network, and encrypt all critical files so that they are unable to be used. The attacker usually demands payment in bitcoin because it is a difficult trace  and promises to provide a key to unlock the data in exchange for the payment. Attackers gain access to company networks by using social engineering techniques such as phishing email, stolen password, or exploiting an unpatched vulnerability in the software that is running on the company's network. 
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The Rising Threat of Ransomware
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Cybercriminals have created one of the most destructive varieties of cybercrimes around the world through ransomware; while experts in the cybersecurity field project losses to global ransomware damage may reach $30 billion by 2025. There has also been a marked increase in SMEs being attacked by ransomware-based cybercriminals throughout India. NASSCOM has done research and found that many SMEs in India have experienced attempted ransomware attacks in the past few years alone. According to incident reports provided through CERT-In, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of cybercrime occurrences throughout different sectors of India’s economy since those reports began. These developments have shown an increase in the size and level of sophistication of ransomware related threats.
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Why Indian SMEs Remain Vulnerable Despite Awareness
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Despite increased awareness about cyber threats, there is a large number of Indian SMEs that continue to be vulnerable to ransomware. The main reason is financial limitations. Many small businesses typically have limited financial resources and those limited resources more often than not, go towards operations, including production, logistics, and marketing - cybersecurity costs are usually viewed as additional costs.

Another significant problem facing SMEs is a shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals. Large enterprises typically have dedicated security teams responsible for protecting the enterprise, whereas SMEs will employ IT staff generally without any specific expertise in detecting/countering cyber threats. Human error are also significant contributors to these cyber incursion events. An employee can inadvertently click on an email link or download an infected attachment, or use a weak password - all of which could provide opportunities for cybercriminals to access the company's network. Phishing emails continue to be the most common approach for initiating ransomware.

Furthermore - many SMEs have implemented digital platforms, such as cloud-based applications and payment processing, without appropriately executing cybersecurity planning prior to implementation. Many of the issues that have arisen from such rapid digitisation are due to a lack of sufficient planned cybersecurity measures as part of the implementation process. This has also resulted in a situation where technological advancements such as Ransomware as a Service (RaaS) have created an even larger pool of potential perpetrators (cybercriminals) with little-to-no expertise being able to launch a widespread ransomware campaign using readily available/pre-manufactured tools.
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Real-World Cyber Incidents Affecting Indian SMEs
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As several examples recently demonstrate, Indian SMEs continue to experience significant cyber attack risks. Recently, a logistics firm located in Gurugram found itself locked out of nearly 4,000 shipments due to a ransomware attack, which cost them ₹12 lakhs to fix because they had poor backups and another incident in Gurugram which highlights how vulnerable many SMEs in the country continue to be to ransomware attacks. In the case of a garments company, a hacker compromised the company's server by placing ransomware on its system. The company was forced to shut down its computerised warehouse system as a result of the attack. Only after the company had lost access to its system, did it receive a ransom demand from the hacker, in the form of an email requesting payment of 15 bitcoins (approximately ₹25 lakh), in order for the hacker to restore the company's access to the system. The hacker also threatened to delete the company's financial and banking records if the ransom were not paid. Gurgaon Police's Cyber Cell received the report of the incident, and registered a first information report (FIR) against unknown hackers. The case represents an opportunity for SMEs to evaluate the risks associated with ransomware.

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Bridging the Gap Between Awareness and Implementation
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Although awareness campaigns can show organisations what types of cybersecurity risks they’re exposed to, these campaigns will not keep businesses from being victims of a ransomware attack by themselves.. The most critical step forward is the implementation of the principles of cybersecurity from an understanding viewpoint to that of an active action. Organisations need to go beyond being aware of the risks related to cyber and then put measures in place to mitigate those risks.

To improve cybersecurity, organisations may need to spend money on developing and maintaining systems; set up regular training for employees on handling cyber threats and implementing an incident response plan to address security incidents; back up data regularly; maintain the hardware and software used in the organisation's computer systems at least once a month (or more often if necessary); and monitor all aspects of its computer systems continuously for weaknesses or problems.
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The Way Forward: Strengthening SME Cybersecurity
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In order to truly address the ransomware threat, collaboration by businesses, government agencies and cyber security professionals is mandatory. One of the biggest roles in this collaboration is through governmental initiatives to enhance the overall level of awareness of digital security among SMEs (small to medium-sized enterprises). Improved SME understanding of cyber risks will be based on the availability of affordable security solutions that are specifically tailored for small businesses.

Industry partnerships as well as public-private partnerships also aid the sharing of threat intelligence to strengthen collaborative defense against all cybercriminal activity.
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Conclusion
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Despite Indian SMEs being aware of cyber threats, they have been unable to implement safeguards or Cyber Security plans due to limited financial resources, insufficient qualified personnel, human errors, and the rapid pace at which digital technology is being adopted without adequate Cyber Security measures. In order to respond effectively to the growing threat of Ransomware, Indian SMEs must evolve from being aware of cyber threats to proactively developing Cyber Security strategies that will allow them to prevent, prepare for, and recover from the increased cyber threat posed by the rapidly growing digitalisation of business within an increasingly globalised economy.
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References 
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1. https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/ransomware
2. https://primeinfoserv.com/indias-sme-cybersecurity-crisis-real-incidents-real-lessons-2024-2025/
3. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/ransomware-attack-on-apparel-firm-all-data-lost/articleshow/59496777.cms#
4. https://ciso.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/cybercrime-fraud/indian-businesses-face-nearly-700-ransomware-attacks-per-day-kaspersky/120471668
5. https://smestreet.in/msmenews/indian-smes-remain-alarmingly-exposed-to-ransomware-threats-sophos-report-2025-9456628
6. https://m.economictimes.com/news/how-to/how-can-indian-smes-combat-ransomware-attacks/articleshow/108047111.cms

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Introduction

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On June 2, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order called "Promoting Artificial Intelligence Innovation and Security." The order tells federal agencies to improve cyber defences against AI-based threats and creates a system where AI companies can choose to let the government access powerful new models before they are released to the public. This happens as the U.S. and China are in a heated competition to lead the next generation of AI. While the order only affects the United States, its impact could reach the global AI industry, including India.

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What Does the Executive Order Do?

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The White House order focuses on three areas: First, it aims to upgrade government cyber security. Federal agencies must strengthen their information systems with AI-enabled defences within 30 days. Cyber Security and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) will issue new guidelines for civilian agencies, and an AI Cyber security Clearinghouse will be established for the government and private companies to share and resolve software vulnerabilities. 

Second, the order introduces a voluntary pre-release review process for advanced AI models. Before a new model is publicly available, AI companies can give the government up to 30 days to evaluate it for cyber security risks. An earlier draft proposed a 90-day review period, but this was cut back due to feedback from the technology industry. The government will also create classified benchmarks to figure out which models qualify as a “covered frontier model” and are therefore subject to this review process. 

Finally, the order emphasises criminal enforcement. It prioritises legal action against those who use AI tools to commit cybercrimes. 

According to the White House, the aim is to promote AI innovation and security by collaborating with the private sector to modernise government and private information systems and protect them from external threats.

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Why Does This Matter Globally?

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1. AI Is Now a National Security Issue Until recently, most governments viewed AI as an economic or scientific issue. This order officially changes that for the United States, placing advanced AI alongside other sensitive technologies that need government oversight before deployment.  When the world's largest military makes this change, other governments pay attention. Countries allied with or partnering with the U.S. will likely revisit their own AI governance frameworks in the months ahead. 

2. Two Competing Models for the World The U.S. and EU represent two different approaches to AI governance. The EU AI Act lays down strict rules, is focused on ethics, and requires heavy compliance. The US approach is lighter on ethics, promoting voluntary cooperation, prioritising security, and encouraging innovation. Countries developing their own AI policies will either continue to align with one of these models or take ideas from both.  The Atlantic Council has pointed out that if the U.S. model is successful, it could influence international security standards for AI development, even without formal global agreements. 

3. The China Factor  Trump initially delayed signing the order, worried it would slow down American companies and give China an edge. The final version avoids mandatory licensing requirements but clearly indicates that the U.S. aims to lead, not only in building AI but also in securing it. China is likely to respond by speeding up its own evaluation systems, creating another global framework.

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What Could This Mean for India?

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India has taken a careful, non-mandatory approach to AI governance. MeitY's India AI Governance Guidelines, issued in November 2025, are based on principles and are not binding. India's AI Safety Institute has been announced but is not fully operational.  Efforts to create binding regulation have been seen in actions like the Private Member's Bill, the AI Ethics and Accountability Bill, 2025, introduced in the Lok Sabha. This bill suggests mandatory reviews for high-risk AI systems but has not been passed yet. It's important to note that groups like the AI Governance Expert Group (AIGEG) and the Technology and Policy Expert Committee (TPEC) serve only in an advisory role; they do not have legislative power. As a result, nothing binding has been implemented so far.  The Trump order puts additional pressure on India to pass measurable, binding AI-security-related measures. As AI use increases in banking, healthcare, telecommunications, and government services and frontier AI models continue to evolve without global oversight, stronger security evaluation methods are becoming necessary, especially in critical sectors.

Recent events prove this need. In June 2026, a Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attack hit the CBSE's On-Screen Marking portal. It saw 1.5 million requests in two minutes and over one lakh unauthorised file access attempts targeting a system used by millions of students. Similar attacks have impacted AIIMS Delhi and other public digital infrastructure. As AI tools make these attacks easier to carry out, security testing before deployment can no longer be seen as optional.

For Indian AI companies aiming at global markets, the U.S. framework is also important for business. Standards that are set voluntarily in Washington often become necessary for international partnerships and contracts.

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Conclusion

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Trump's AI cyber security order signals a shift. A government that resisted regulating AI has now recognised that powerful models need oversight before they reach the public. Its immediate impact affects U.S. agencies and developers. However, the broader message is that advanced AI is a national security concern. This will influence policy conversations around the world. For India, the priority is to develop its own security evaluation capacity now, rather than waiting to adopt frameworks created for other contexts.

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References

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• White House Executive Order, "Promoting Advanced Artificial Intelligence Innovation and Security," June 2, 2026
• Federal Register — Executive Order Publication, June 5, 2026
• Council on Foreign Relations — Assessing Trump's Executive Order on AI Oversight, June 4, 2026
• Atlantic Council — Reading Between the Lines of Trump's New Executive Order on AI, June 3, 2026
• Times of India — Donald Trump Passes AI Cyber security Order
• MeitY India AI Governance Guidelines, November 2025
• AI Ethics and Accountability Bill, 2025 — Explained
• NPR — Trump Signs EO Seeking Early Government Access to Powerful AI Models

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In the vast, interconnected cosmos of the internet, where knowledge and connectivity are celebrated as the twin suns of enlightenment, there lurk shadows of a more sinister nature. Here, in these darker corners, the innocence of childhood is not only exploited but also scarred, indelibly and forever. The production, distribution, and consumption of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) have surged to alarming levels globally, casting a long, ominous shadow over the digital landscape. 

In response to this pressing issue, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has unfurled a comprehensive four-part advisory, a beacon of hope aimed at combating CSAM and safeguarding the rights of children in this digital age. This advisory dated 27/10/23 is not merely a reaction to the rising tide of CSAM, but a testament to the imperative need for constant vigilance in the realm of cyber peace.

The statistics paint a sobering picture. In 2021, more than 1,500 instances of publishing, storing, and transmitting CSAM were reported, shedding a harsh light on the scale of the problem. Even more alarming is the upward trend in cases reported in subsequent years. By 2023, a staggering 450,207 cases of CSAM had already been reported, marking a significant increase from the 204,056 and 163,633 cases reported in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The Key Aspects of Advisory

The NHRC's advisory commences with a fundamental recommendation - a redefinition of terminology. It suggests replacing the term 'Child Pornography' with 'Child Sexual Abuse Material' (CSAM). This shift in language is not merely semantic; it underscores the gravity of the issue, emphasizing that this is not about pornography but child abuse. 

Moreover, the advisory calls for the definition of 'sexually explicit' under Section 67B of the IT Act, 2000. This step is crucial for ensuring the prompt identification and removal of online CSAM. By giving a clear definition, law enforcement can act swiftly in removing such content from the internet.

The digital world knows no borders, and CSAM can easily cross jurisdictional lines. NHRC recognizes this challenge and proposes that laws be harmonized across jurisdictions through bilateral agreements. Moreover, it recommends pushing for the adoption of a UN draft Convention on 'Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes' at the General Assembly.

One of the critical aspects of the advisory is the strengthening of law enforcement. NHRC advocates for the creation of Specialized State Police Units in every state and union territory to handle CSAM-related cases. The central government is expected to provide support, including grants, to set up and equip these units. 

The NHRC further recommends establishing a Specialized Central Police Unit under the government of India's jurisdiction. This unit will focus on identifying and apprehending CSAM offenders and maintaining a repository of such content. Its role is not limited to law enforcement; it is expected to cooperate with investigative agencies, analyze patterns, and initiate the process for content takedown. This coordinated approach is designed to combat the problem effectively, both on the dark web and open web.

The role of internet intermediaries and social media platforms in controlling CSAM is undeniable. The NHRC advisory emphasizes that intermediaries must deploy technology, such as content moderation algorithms, to proactively detect and remove CSAM from their platforms. This places the onus on the platforms to be proactive in policing their content and ensuring the safety of their users. 

New Developments 

Platforms using end-to-end encryption services may be required to create additional protocols for monitoring the circulation of CSAM. Failure to do so may invite the withdrawal of the 'safe harbor' clause under Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000. This measure ensures that platforms using encryption technology are not inadvertently providing safe havens for those engaged in illegal activities. 

NHRC's advisory extends beyond legal and law enforcement measures; it emphasizes the importance of awareness and sensitization at various levels. Schools, colleges, and institutions are called upon to educate students, parents, and teachers about the modus operandi of online child sexual abusers, the vulnerabilities of children on the internet, and the early signs of online child abuse. 

To further enhance awareness, a cyber curriculum is proposed to be integrated into the education system. This curriculum will not only boost digital literacy but also educate students about relevant child care legislation, policies, and the legal consequences of violating them. 

NHRC recognizes that survivors of CSAM need more than legal measures and prevention strategies. Survivors are recommended to receive support services and opportunities for rehabilitation through various means. Partnerships with civil society and other stakeholders play a vital role in this aspect. Moreover, psycho-social care centers are proposed to be established in every district to facilitate need-based support services and organization of stigma eradication programs. 

NHRC's advisory is a resounding call to action, acknowledging the critical importance of protecting children from the perils of CSAM. By addressing legal gaps, strengthening law enforcement, regulating online platforms, and promoting awareness and support, the NHRC aims to create a safer digital environment for children. 

Conclusion 

In a world where the internet plays an increasingly central role in our lives, these recommendations are not just proactive but imperative. They underscore the collective responsibility of governments, law enforcement agencies, intermediaries, and society as a whole in safeguarding the rights and well-being of children in the digital age. 

NHRC's advisory is a pivotal guide to a more secure and child-friendly digital world. By addressing the rising tide of CSAM and emphasizing the need for constant vigilance, NHRC reaffirms the critical role of organizations, governments, and individuals in ensuring cyber peace and child protection in the digital age. The active contribution from premier cyber resilience firms like Cyber Peace Foundation, amplifies the collective action forging a secure digital space, highlighting the pivotal role played by think tanks in ensuring cyber peace and resilience. 

References:

• https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/nhrc-issues-advisory-regarding-child-sexual-abuse-material-on-internet-101698473197792.html
• https://ssrana.in/articles/nhrcs-advisory-proliferation-of-child-sexual-abuse-material-csam/
• https://theprint.in/india/specialised-central-police-unit-use-of-technology-to-proactively-detect-csam-nhrc-advisory/1822223/

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