#FactCheck: Viral Avalanche Video Is from Peru, Not the Nepal-Tibet Floods

Introduction

The advent of AI-driven deepfake technology has facilitated the creation of explicit counterfeit videos for sextortion purposes. There has been an alarming increase in the use of Artificial Intelligence to create fake explicit images or videos for sextortion.

What is AI Sextortion and Deepfake Technology

AI sextortion refers to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, particularly deepfake algorithms, to create counterfeit explicit videos or images for the purpose of harassing, extorting, or blackmailing individuals. Deepfake technology utilises AI algorithms to manipulate or replace faces and bodies in videos, making them appear realistic and often indistinguishable from genuine footage. This enables malicious actors to create explicit content that falsely portrays individuals engaging in sexual activities, even if they never participated in such actions.

Background on the Alarming Increase in AI Sextortion Cases

Recently there has been a significant increase in AI sextortion cases. Advancements in AI and deepfake technology have made it easier for perpetrators to create highly convincing fake explicit videos or images. The algorithms behind these technologies have become more sophisticated, allowing for more seamless and realistic manipulations. And the accessibility of AI tools and resources has increased, with open-source software and cloud-based services readily available to anyone. This accessibility has lowered the barrier to entry, enabling individuals with malicious intent to exploit these technologies for sextortion purposes.

The proliferation of sharing content on social media

The proliferation of social media platforms and the widespread sharing of personal content online have provided perpetrators with a vast pool of potential victims’ images and videos. By utilising these readily available resources, perpetrators can create deepfake explicit content that closely resembles the victims, increasing the likelihood of success in their extortion schemes.

Furthermore, the anonymity and wide reach of the internet and social media platforms allow perpetrators to distribute manipulated content quickly and easily. They can target individuals specifically or upload the content to public forums and pornographic websites, amplifying the impact and humiliation experienced by victims.

What are law agencies doing?

The alarming increase in AI sextortion cases has prompted concern among law enforcement agencies, advocacy groups, and technology companies. This is high time to make strong Efforts to raise awareness about the risks of AI sextortion, develop detection and prevention tools, and strengthen legal frameworks to address these emerging threats to individuals’ privacy, safety, and well-being.

There is a need for Technological Solutions, which develops and deploys advanced AI-based detection tools to identify and flag AI-generated deepfake content on platforms and services. And collaboration with technology companies to integrate such solutions.

Collaboration with Social Media Platforms is also needed. Social media platforms and technology companies can reframe and enforce community guidelines and policies against disseminating AI-generated explicit content. And can ensure foster cooperation in developing robust content moderation systems and reporting mechanisms.

There is a need to strengthen the legal frameworks to address AI sextortion, including laws that specifically criminalise the creation, distribution, and possession of AI-generated explicit content. Ensure adequate penalties for offenders and provisions for cross-border cooperation.

Proactive measures to combat AI-driven sextortion

Prevention and Awareness: Proactive measures raise awareness about AI sextortion, helping individuals recognise risks and take precautions.

Early Detection and Reporting: Proactive measures employ advanced detection tools to identify AI-generated deepfake content early, enabling prompt intervention and support for victims.

Legal Frameworks and Regulations: Proactive measures strengthen legal frameworks to criminalise AI sextortion, facilitate cross-border cooperation, and impose offender penalties.

Technological Solutions: Proactive measures focus on developing tools and algorithms to detect and remove AI-generated explicit content, making it harder for perpetrators to carry out their schemes.

International Cooperation: Proactive measures foster collaboration among law enforcement agencies, governments, and technology companies to combat AI sextortion globally.

Support for Victims: Proactive measures provide comprehensive support services, including counselling and legal assistance, to help victims recover from emotional and psychological trauma.

Implementing these proactive measures will help create a safer digital environment for all.

Misuse of Technology

Misusing technology, particularly AI-driven deepfake technology, in the context of sextortion raises serious concerns.

Exploitation of Personal Data: Perpetrators exploit personal data and images available online, such as social media posts or captured video chats, to create AI- manipulation violates privacy rights and exploits the vulnerability of individuals who trust that their personal information will be used responsibly.

Facilitation of Extortion: AI sextortion often involves perpetrators demanding monetary payments, sexually themed images or videos, or other favours under the threat of releasing manipulated content to the public or to the victims’ friends and family. The realistic nature of deepfake technology increases the effectiveness of these extortion attempts, placing victims under significant emotional and financial pressure.

Amplification of Harm: Perpetrators use deepfake technology to create explicit videos or images that appear realistic, thereby increasing the potential for humiliation, harassment, and psychological trauma suffered by victims. The wide distribution of such content on social media platforms and pornographic websites can perpetuate victimisation and cause lasting damage to their reputation and well-being.

Targeting teenagers– Targeting teenagers and extortion demands in AI sextortion cases is a particularly alarming aspect of this issue. Teenagers are particularly vulnerable to AI sextortion due to their increased use of social media platforms for sharing personal information and images. Perpetrators exploit to manipulate and coerce them.

Erosion of Trust: Misusing AI-driven deepfake technology erodes trust in digital media and online interactions. As deepfake content becomes more convincing, it becomes increasingly challenging to distinguish between real and manipulated videos or images.

Proliferation of Pornographic Content: The misuse of AI technology in sextortion contributes to the proliferation of non-consensual pornography (also known as “revenge porn”) and the availability of explicit content featuring unsuspecting individuals. This perpetuates a culture of objectification, exploitation, and non-consensual sharing of intimate material.

Conclusion

Addressing the concern of AI sextortion requires a multi-faceted approach, including technological advancements in detection and prevention, legal frameworks to hold offenders accountable, awareness about the risks, and collaboration between technology companies, law enforcement agencies, and advocacy groups to combat this emerging threat and protect the well-being of individuals online.

Introduction

So it's that time of year when you feel bright and excited to start the year with new resolutions; your goals could be anything from going to the gym to learning new skills and being productive this year, but with cybercrime on the rise, you must also be smart and take your New Year Cyber Resolutions seriously. Yes, you heard it right: it's a new year, a new you, but the same hackers with advanced dangers. It's time to make a cyber resolution this year to be secure, smart, and follow the best cyber safety tips for 2K25 and beyond.

Best Cyber Security Tips For You 

So while taking your cyber resolutions this 2k25, remember that hackers have resolutions too; so you have to make yours better! CyberPeace has curated a list of great tips and cyber hygiene practices you must practice in 2025:

• Be Aware Of Your Digital Rights: Netizens should be aware of their rights in the digital space. It's important to know where to report issues, how to raise concerns with platforms, and what rights are available to you under applicable IT and Data Protection laws. And as we often say, sharing is caring, so make sure to discuss and share your knowledge of digital rights with your family, peers, and circle. Not only will this help raise awareness, but you’ll also learn from their experiences, collectively empowering yourselves. After all, a well-informed online community is a happy one.
• Awareness Is Your First Line Of Defence: Awareness serves as the first line of defence, especially in light of the lessons learned from 2024, where new forms of cybercrimes have emerged with serious consequences. Scams like digital arrests, romance frauds, lottery scams, and investment scams have become more prevalent. As we move into 2025, remember that sophisticated cyber scams require equally advanced strategies to stay protected. As cybercrimes evolve and become more complex, it's crucial to stay updated with specific strategies and hygiene tips to defend yourself. Build your first line of defence by being aware of these growing scams, and say goodbye to the manipulative tactics used by cyber crooks.
• Customise Social Media Media Profile And Privacy Settings: With the rising misuse of advanced technologies such as deepfake, it’s crucial to share access to your profile only with people you trust and know. Customize your social media profile settings based on your convenience, such as who can add you, who can see your uploaded pictures and stories, and who can comment on your posts. Tailor these settings to suit your needs and preferences, ensuring a safer digital environment for yourself.
• Be Cautious: Choose wisely, just because an online deal seems exciting doesn’t mean it’s legitimate. A single click could have devastating consequences. Not every link leads to a secure website; it could be a malware or phishing attempt. Be cautious and follow basic cyber hygiene tips, such as only visiting websites with a padlock symbol, a secure connection, and the 'HTTPS' status in the URL. 
• Don’t Let Fake News Fake You Out: Online misinformation and disinformation have sparked serious concern due to their widespread proliferation. That’s why it’s crucial to 'Spot The Lies Before They Spot You.' Exercise due care and caution when consuming, sharing, or forwarding any online information. Always verify it from trusted sources, recognize the red flags of misleading claims, and contribute to creating a truthful online information landscape.
• Turn the Tables on Cybercriminals: It is crucial to know the proper reporting channels for cybercrimes, including specific reporting methods based on the type of issue. For example, ‘unsolicited commercial communications’ can be reported on the Chakshu portal by the government. Unauthorized electronic transactions can be reported to the RBI toll-free number at 14440, while women can report incidents to the National Commission for Women. If you encounter issues on a platform, you can reach out to the platform's grievance officer. All types of cybercrimes can be reported through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) and the helpline at 1930. It’s essential to be aware of the right authorities and reporting mechanisms, so if something goes wrong in your digital experience, you can take action, turn the tables on cybercrooks, and stay informed about official grievances and reporting channels.
• Log Out, Chill Out: The increased use of technology can have far-reaching consequences that are often overlooked, such as procrastination, stress, anxiety, and eye strain (also known as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome). Sometimes, it’s essential to switch off the digital curtains. This is where a ‘Digital Detox’ comes in, offering a chance to recharge and reset. We’re all aware of how our devices and phones influence our daily lives, shaping our behaviours, decisions, and lifestyles from morning until night, even impacting our sleep. Taking time to unplug can provide a much-needed psychological and physical boost. Practicing a digital detox at regular suitable intervals, such as twice a month, can help restore balance, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.

Final Words & the Idea of ‘Tech for Good’

Remember that we are in the technological era, and these technologies are created for our ease and convenience. There are certain challenges that bad actors pose, but to counter this,  the change starts from you. Remember that technology, while having its risks, also brings tremendous benefits to society. We encourage you to take a step and encourage the responsible and ethical use of the technology. The vision for ‘Tech for Good’ will have to be expanded to a larger picture. Do not engage in a behaviour that you would not ordinarily do in an offline environment, the online environment is also the same and has far-reaching effects. Use technology for good, and follow and encourage ethical and responsible behaviour in online communities. The emphasis should be on using technology in a safer environment for everyone and combatting dishonest practices. 

The effective strategies for preventing cybercrime and dishonest practices requires cooperation , efforts by citizens, government agencies, and technology businesses. We intend to employ technology's good aspects to build a digital environment that values security, honesty, and moral behaviour while promoting innovation and connectedness. In 2025, together we can make a cyber safe resilient society.

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Executive Summary:

A widely circulated video claiming to feature a poster with the words "I Told Modi" has gone viral, improperly connecting it to the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, in which terrorists killed 26 civilians. The altered Marvel Studios clip is allegedly a mockery of Operation Sindoor, the counterterrorism operation India initiated in response to the attack. This misinformation emphasizes how crucial it is to confirm information before sharing it online by disseminating misleading propaganda and drawing attention away from real events.

Claim:

A man can be seen changing a poster that says "Tell Modi" to one that says "I Told Modi" in a widely shared viral video. This video allegedly makes reference to Operation Sindoor in India, which was started in reaction to the Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, in which militants connected to The Resistance Front (TRF) killed 26 civilians.

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Fact check:

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Further research, we found the original post from Marvel Studios' official X  handle, confirming that the circulating video has been altered using AI and does not reflect the authentic content. 

By using Hive Moderation to detect AI manipulation in the video, we have determined that this video has been modified with AI-generated content, presenting false or misleading information that does not reflect real events. 

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Furthermore, we found a Hindustan Times article discussing the mysterious reveal involving Hollywood actor Sebastian Stan.

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Conclusion:

It is untrue to say that the "I Told Modi" poster is a component of a public demonstration. The text has been digitally changed to deceive viewers, and the video is manipulated footage from a Marvel film. The content should be ignored as it has been identified as false information.

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• Claim: Viral social media posts confirm a Pakistani military attack on India.
• Claimed On: Social Media
• Fact Check: False and Misleading

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