While AI is assisting humans in various fields, it could also be used for several types of criminal activities

Most inventions have their positive and negative aspects. For example, a gun can be used for self-defense and it has also been used by criminals. Similarly, artificial intelligence (AI) can also be a double-edged sword. In fact, many cases of criminals using AI have already been recorded. To keep you safe, let us take a look at some common areas where criminals are using AI to achieve their nefarious goals.

Deepfake scams – This is probably the most dangerous as it can dupe even the most informed people. AI can easily create deepfake audio, images and videos. These are as good as the real thing and can be used for deceiving victims. For example, deepfake videos of CEOs or loved ones can be created with fake messaging to demand money or extract confidential information. Deepfakes can be especially damaging on the smartphone screens, where detecting minor anomalies may not be possible due to the small screen size.

Password cracking – It is common knowledge that people often use passwords that are easier to remember. These often contain text and alphabets taken from their date of birth, address details, phone numbers, etc. By collecting various types of available data from social channels and other sources, AI can come up with suggestions about the possible password combinations. This makes the task of cracking passwords easier for criminals.

Automated hacking – AI can be programmed to detect various types of vulnerabilities present in a network. Such automated AI systems can scan vast amounts of code in just a few seconds. It means that the work that will take months to achieve manually can be done in just a few minutes with the help of AI. Such automated hacking tools present significant challenges for cybersecurity personnel.

Fake documents and IDs – With the help of AI, criminals can create a wide variety of fake documents and IDs. These can be used both online and offline to deceive people. AI-generated fake documents, photos and IDs can be used for various criminal activities such as drug trafficking, fraud, money laundering, etc.

Evade fraud detection – AI has been quite effective in detecting various types of frauds. AI can analyze vast data sets and identify patterns that indicate potential fraud. This can also be a double-edged sword, as criminals can use AI to understand the working of fraud detection systems. They can then make the necessary changes to their fraudulent activities and processes to avoid detection.

As is evident from above, AI can be misused by criminals in various ways. Thankfully, law enforcement agencies are actively working to identify such trends. Such cat and mouse games will continue, just as they have for hundreds of years. To ensure your safety, it is essential to always remain aware of new tricks being used by criminals to deceive you. For more detailed information and regular updates, you can visit – www.cisa.gov/secureourworld.

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To report a cybercrime, users can approach the national Cyber Crime Portal or their respective City or State cyber-crime department

As more and more people transact online and use online platforms, the number of cybercrimes is rising. In the first quarter of 2024, people lost around Rs 176 crore to cyber frauds. To tackle the menace of cybercrime, the government has introduced a dedicated cybercrime portal. Several states also have their own cybercrime investigation department. Since cyber fraudsters often have pan-India and even international crime networks, the central cybercrime portal can deliver better results. Here is a step-by-step process as to how to file a complaint in Cyber Crime online.

How to file a complaint in cybercrime online?

Step 1: Users first need to understand the various types of cybercrimes that can be reported to the cybercrime portal. The list of cybercrimes is quite long. It includes everything from vishing to sexting, smshing, SIM swap scam, debit/credit card fraud, phishing, spamming, impersonation, identity theft, ransomware, virus, worms, trojans, data breach, cybersquatting, pharming, cryptojacking, online drug trafficking and espionage. Cybercrime also includes cyber bullying, cyber stalking, cyber grooming, online job fraud, online sextortion and child pornography.

Step 2: If the user feels that their case is related to any of the crimes above, they can report it to the Cyber Crime Portal. The dedicated portal to report cybercrimes is https://cybercrime.gov.in/. There are three broad categories in which cybercrime complaints can be filed. It includes financial fraud, other cybercrime and crime related to women and children. In case of women and children related crime, users can file their complaint anonymously.

Step 3: It is important to note that users should be honest when reporting a cybercrime online. If a false complaint is filed, the user will have to face penal action as per Indian laws. So, before registering a complaint with the Cyber Crime Portal, make sure that you are not making any false accusations.

Step 4: Anyone filing a complaint in cybercrime online needs to register with the Cyber Crime Portal. New users need to select their state and provide their email ID and mobile number. An OTP verification process will establish the identity of the user.

Step 5: Once registered, users can file a complaint in cybercrime online. They need to provide all the details of the case including the date and time. Identity verification will be needed, which can be done by providing a soft copy of any national ID card such as passport, driving license, voter ID, Aadhaar Card and PAN card. For reporting financial fraud, users will need to provide their bank details or wallet/merchant details. They also need to mention the transaction details such as 12-digit transaction ID, date of transaction, soft copy of all supporting evidence and the fraud amount.

How long it takes to solve cyber crime complaint?

Once a cybercrime complaint has been filed, the investigation will start. Users can track the status of their complaint by using the Track Your Complaint button. It may take a few days or weeks to solve the cybercrime case. However, depending on the type of case, the investigation may also take several months. It is recommended that users file complaints about cybercrime online as soon as possible. This will increase the chances of solving the case quickly and also recovering any stolen money.

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Consumers who want to complain against a product or service can approach the district court or register their complaint online on edaakhil website

A number of initiatives have been taken by the government to resolve the grievances of consumers. Even before a consumer complaint turns into actual litigation, consumers can seek relief by approaching the Consumer Helpline (https://consumerhelpline.gov.in/public/). The Convergence Program can resolve many consumer complaints, thereby avoiding the hassles of approaching a consumer court.

However, there can be occasions when one may have to approach the consumer court for resolving their disputes. A complaint in consumer court can be filed for various reasons such as defective goods, unfair or restrictive trade practices, overcharging, deficiency in services, selling hazardous goods / services, etc.

How to file an online complaint in consumer court?

Most consumers often tend to avoid consumer courts, as they are busy with their jobs or profession. Keeping this in mind, the government has provided an online platform to file complaints in consumer court. An aggrieved customer has to first register on the https://edaakhil.nic.in/edaakhil/ website. After registration, they can file their complaint in the consumer court. The website provides detailed guidelines and video tutorials about the step-by-step process of filing a complaint in consumer court.

In case a consumer has hired an advocate, they too can login to register a complaint with the consumer court on behalf of the client. The process is largely the same for the advocate as well. The online edaakhil platform for filing complaints in consumer court has benefitted a large number of people. Using edaakhil, consumers can pursue their case sitting in the comfort of their homes. Platforms like edaakhil are also prompting brands to improve their customer support services.

How to file a complaint in District / State / National consumer court?

Users also have the option to choose the standard offline mode to file a complaint in consumer court. Based on the value of the claim made, consumers can approach the district, state or national consumer commission.

• District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC) – Consumers can approach the district consumer court when the claim value is less than Rs 50 lakh.
• State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (SCDRC) – This option will be used when the claim value is more than Rs 50 lakh, but less than Rs 2 crore.
• National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) – For any amount claimed above Rs 2 crore, the national consumer court has to be approached.

Filing complaint in consumer court – Step-by-Step process

1. Before filing a complaint in the consumer court, consumers need to first send a notice to the concerned entity. The notice should provide all the details about the issues being faced by the consumer. Also, the notice should clearly indicate that litigation will become necessary if the issue is not resolved.
2. A consumer complaint draft should be prepared, which will be presented in the consumer court. This complaint should have all the details about the complainant, the type of complaint and the opposite party involved.
3. All the supporting facts, evidence and documents should be added. Documents will include bills, warranty/guarantee certificate, receipts, etc. An affidavit stating that all data provided is true will also be needed.
4. Based on the value of the claim made, the consumer will have to pay a fee. The complaint should be made within two years of the occurrence of the initial problem.

How long it takes to get justice in a consumer court?

Based on the complexity of the case, it can take anywhere between 6 months to 5 years to get a complaint resolved via a consumer court. In case of a District consumer court, the case takes around 6 months to 2 years. For State consumer courts, the redressal timeline can be in the range of 1 to 3 years. The National consumer court can take around 1 to 5 years to deliver their judgment.

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With origins in early 18th century, the Tirupati Laddu is sacred to millions of devotees of Lord Venkateshwara

India’s rich Sanatana dharma has great reverence for its gods and goddesses, which can be seen across thousands of temples in the country. One of these is the Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple, located in Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the most revered places of worship in India and the world as well, with over 60,000 devotees visiting every day. The temple is known for its Tirupati Laddu prasadam, given to devotees after darshan of Lord Venkateswara.

Tirupati Laddu prasadam controversy

A major controversy erupted when Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu claimed that substandard and unholy materials such as beef tallow, lard and fish oil were used in the preparation of the revered Tirupati Laddu during the term of the previous chief minister, Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. There are allegations that the unholy and substandard materials went into the preparation via the supply of adulterated ghee.

It is to be noted that ghee is one of the main ingredients that give the Tirupati Laddu its unique taste and flavor. Use of ghee is also relevant from the perspective of Hindu religious beliefs. This is why the alleged presence of unholy items such as beef tallow, lard and fish oil has caused a major concern among the devotees.

Tirupati Laddu controversy – What lab report says

Tests conducted by a laboratory accredited by the National Dairy Development Board showed that the samples submitted were adulterated. However, since there are multiple suppliers, it is difficult to identify the exact source of adulteration. Further investigations are underway to identify the source of the adulterated ghee used in the making of Tirupati Laddu.

The state government is also taking steps to ensure that such incidents do not occur again. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has also been formed to carry out a more thorough investigation. The SIT comprises officers of IGP rank and above.

Political response to Tirupati Laddu controversy

Various political leaders have expressed serious concerns about the alleged adulteration of raw materials used in the making of Tirupati Laddu. The Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Mr. Pawan Kalyan performed a purification ritual to atone for the use of animal fat in Tirupati Laddu prasadam. Pawan Kalyan’s purification ritual is part of its 11-day Prayaschitta Diksha.

Tirupati Laddu case reaches Supreme Court

Responding to the allegations, Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and his YSR Congress Party has said that false claims are being made against them to malign their image among the devotees. The matter has also reached the Supreme Court, so that the truth can be uncovered. The religious faiths and beliefs of millions of devotees have been hurt and it is important to restore trust and confidence. Since the matter is in the court now, it may take some time to understand what really happened in the Tirupati Laddu controversy. And exactly which persons or entities were responsible for the use of animal fat in the making of the revered Tirupati Laddu prasadam.

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Co-founder and ex-CEO of fashion e-commerce startup Zilingo launches an FIR

MUMBAI, 24 APRIL 2024: The Mumbai Police have launched a detailed criminal investigation into Co-founder & CTO – Dhruv Kapoor and ex-COO – Aadi Vaidya following accusations that have gripped the attention of India’s business sector. The allegations, outlined in the complaint look into:

Cheating and Fraud (Sections 415, 416, 417 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860)

Criminal Conspiracy (Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code, 1860)

Defamation (Sections 499, 500 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860)

Harassment and Criminal Intimidation (Section 506 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860)

These charges are linked to the dramatic decline of the once-prominent startup Zilingo and the controversial dismissal of its CEO, Ankiti Bose.

Once hailed as a pioneering figure in the Asian technology industry, Ankiti Bose saw her career severely damaged by what are now considered by many as baseless and contrived accusations. According to the complaint before Kasturba Police Station, Borivali East, Ankiti Bose said, “As the chief operating officer, Aadi Vaidya engaged in misconduct by falsely attributing loss-making deals to me and extending trade credit to various parties in my name. He then used those deals to threaten me by falsely implicating me to investors, despite the fact that all operational dealings were conducted by him in my previous company. I have been threatened, deceived, and had errors attributed to me in order for Vaidya to fraudulently acquire my shares, which are valued at multiple crores.”

According to the FIR, Kapoor and Vaidya are alleged to have manipulated facts, fabricated charges, and intentionally concealed essential documents and information. These calculated actions were reportedly aimed at discrediting Ms. Bose, culminating in her removal and the eventual unraveling of the fashion e-commerce powerhouse. Confirming that their client, Ms. Bose has bravely lodged a criminal complaint through an FIR against her former colleagues, Managing Partner, Mr. Pradeep Kumar Jain and Partner, Ms. Monika Tanna – Law firm, Singhania & Co., is representing Ms. Bose

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Having been widely showcased across movies, TV shows and news media, there is a great deal of awareness about government agencies such as the FBI and CIA. Most stories are presented in a positive manner, which has ensured a sense of confidence and pride for these agencies among the masses.

However, it also brings up some conflicting questions about these agencies. For example, many people ask if the FBI can investigate the CIA and vice versa? For answers, it is necessary to delve deeper into the role of these agencies.

Can the FBI investigate a CIA agent?

The straight answer to whether the FBI can investigate the CIA is ‘yes’. There have been cases in the past when the FBI has investigated the CIA. For example, the FBI had suspected the CIA’s role when Chilean President Salvador Allende was assassinated. An investigation was conducted in 1994. Similarly, there were allegations that CIA was using torture techniques during their investigations into 9/11 attacks. This angle was also investigated by the FBI.

Approval needed from the Attorney General

Even though the FBI can potentially investigate the CIA, it is not as straightforward as in other standard cases. To investigate CIA activities or their agents, the FBI will need approval from the Attorney General. The Attorney General functions as the head of the Department of Justice. This organization regulates both the FBI and the CIA. The functioning of both the FBI and CIA are governed by various government agencies including the Congress. There are plenty of checks and balances to ensure that none of the stakeholders are influenced by their personal biases and opinions.

Who is more powerful – the FBI or CIA?

Across movies and TV shows, both the FBI and CIA are showcased as agencies with a lot of power, resources and influence. This is quite true, as these agencies have special privileges. For example, CIA agents do not have to adhere to specific laws such as the Freedom of Information Act. As seen in movies, CIA agents are depicted to have unlimited powers and the freedom to eliminate anyone they want. This sometimes creates the perception that the CIA is more powerful than the FBI.

However, the reality is that the FBI and CIA have distinct roles and jurisdictions. So, it would be like comparing apples to oranges. While both are federal agencies, the FBI primarily focuses on domestic law enforcement. It also handles counterintelligence within the USA. So, if any CIA official is involved in crime or anti-national activities, they could be investigated by the FBI. However, relevant permissions will be needed, as already discussed above.

On the other hand, the CIA is primarily focused on international intelligence gathering. The CIA also conducts covert operations at overseas locations to protect national security. The CIA does not have any major role to play in domestic law enforcement. Its operations are focused outside the country.

While the FBI can investigate the CIA and vice-versa, such cases are quite rare. In reality, both agencies usually work together on several cases. It is their teamwork that has kept the United States safe from the nefarious plans of internal and external enemies.

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Pickpocketing is one of the oldest ways of stealing from people. While earlier cash and valuables were the target, the current breed of pickpockets can also steal electronic items such as smartphones. Pickpockets often operate in crowded places, where it is easier to follow people and discreetly steal from their pockets. Quite often, purses and bags are also stolen without the owner noticing.

Getting pickpocketed can be a big hassle if you lose your cards, passport and other documents. It is important to be extra careful when you are travelling abroad. Here is a list of places that are considered to have the highest number of pickpockets in the world.

Barcelona, Spain – Barcelona is a global tourist hub, attracting around 10 million vacationers every year. One of the most visited places is the Las Ramblas boulevard. As the tree-lined pedestrian street witnesses a large number of tourists, it is a preferred hunting ground for pickpockets. While official numbers are not available, Las Ramblas in Barcelona is considered as one of the world’s pickpocketing hubs.

London, UK – This is one of the locations with the highest pickpockets. Research in 2022 revealed more than 80,000 incidents in two years. Areas in London with highest cases of pickpocketing included Westminster, Camden and Southwark. Despite strict police action, pickpocketing and street theft cases continue to trouble tourists who come to London from across the globe.

Paris, France – It is easy to guess that Eiffel Tower in Paris is the most-visited destination in France. It attracts close to 7 million tourists every year. Around 75% of people visiting the Eiffel Tower are international tourists. With tourists mesmerized by the size and scale of the tower, pickpockets find it easy to prey on their victims. There are not just gangs, but also entire families who are into pickpocketing around the Eiffel Tower as a permanent profession.

Rome, Italy – One of the high-risk areas in Rome for pickpocketing is Trevi Fountain. One of the popular activities is throwing coins into the fountain, which is supposed to bring you good luck. It is estimated that the fountain collects around 3,000 Euros every day. But as people get consumed in the ritual, pickpockets find it the right time to strike.

Prague, Czech Republic – Visitors to Prague often head to the Charles Bridge to pay respect to St. John of Nepomuk. It is a traditional ritual to touch the statue of the saint. It is considered to bring good luck. As people are busy in the rituals, pickpockets find them an easy target.

When you are travelling to popular tourist destinations, the risk of pickpockets will always be there. One of the solutions is to keep your valuable items inside an inner jacket pocket. You can also try anti-theft bags or anti-theft clothing. Or, you can simply leave your valuables at the hotel you are staying at.

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There have been several cases of home invasion at night. However, there can also be situations when someone out there may genuinely need your help. Due to these factors, one may find it difficult to make a decision. Here are some ways to approach the situation when someone knocks on your door in the middle of the night.

The door is your defense – Home invaders can use the tactic to knock on your door at night. So, in the interest of your safety and that of your family members, it is recommended that you do not open the door. To gain an upper hand, you can ask them if they want you to call 911 for assistance. If they are home invaders, they will surely back off after hearing your offer to call 911.

Female in distress – It is possible that sometimes home invaders may use a female to knock on your door. In such cases, the other gang members may be hiding around the house. Irrespective of who knocks on the door in the middle of the night, always treat such events as suspicious.

Do not let a gun make you overconfident – People with firearms may feel more confident when someone knocks on their door at night. However, a gun is meant to be used as a last resort. It should not be a reason to open the door to strangers in the middle of the night. You could be overpowered and/or attacked with knives or other hand-held objects. Keep your firearm ready, but do not make the mistake of opening the door.

Ask what they need – If someone knocks on your door at night, you need to ask them what they need. Their answer will provide definitive clues about their intentions. Some may even claim that they are being chased by anti-social elements and need shelter. In such situations, you can immediately call 911. Do not open the door in any situation.

Inform kids and elders – Home invaders are usually looking for easy targets such as kids and the elderly. These people are usually more trustful and may get deceived by the home invaders. They may open the door, while you may be sleeping in another room. Or you may not be in the house at that time. To avoid such situations, make sure you inform all family members to follow the protocol of not opening the door to strangers.

Do not pretend you are not at home – If you do not reply from inside your home, the home invader may feel that there is no one in the house. It may prompt them to break the door and gain entry. Such developments need to be avoided. You need to talk to the stranger, but should not open the door.

Call some neighbors and ask them to turn on their inside and outside lights – When home invaders see activity in the neighborhood, they may be forced to retreat. You need to explain to your neighbors what is happening and what they need to do.

As is evident, there are various ways to handle the situation of someone knocking at your door in the middle of the night. If you feel someone is truly in distress, it is always better to call 911 instead of opening the door to strangers.

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As records show, cases of mass shootings have been increasing in the United States. There can be various interpretations of what a mass shooting event can be. According to the Gun Violence Archive, cases where 4 or more people are killed or injured is generally reported as a mass shooting event. Figures have been on the rise since 2020. Such cases have resulted in widespread debate over gun ownership legislation and gun control measures.

While leaders ponder over the best ways to control the menace of mass shootings, it makes us wonder why such cases are on the rise in the first place. For answers, let us take a look at some possible reasons, as to why mass shooting cases are rising in the United States.

Easy access to guns – The United States reports the highest number of mass shootings in the world. One apparent reason is that the United States has the world’s highest per-capita gun ownership. The ratio is 120.5 firearms for every 100 people. No other nation can match this high level of access to guns.

It explains why the United States reports the highest number of mass shootings in the world. Angry, hateful and mentally unstable people are there in every country. But things become a lot more dangerous if they have easy access to a gun.

Mental health issues – Due to the fast-paced lifestyle, a number of individuals are facing mental health issues. It has been found that many perpetrators involved in mass shootings were affected by mental health issues such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and major depressive disorder. Mental health issues can occur due to various reasons including family issues, unemployment, relationship problems and substance abuse.

Anger, rage and hatred – A lot of content circulates online that can fuel the anger, rage and hatred inside an individual. While controlled at most times, there can be instances that can trigger an explosion of that inner rage and anger. Without a gun, a raging individual is most likely to throw punches at people. But with easy access to guns, the inner rage seems to find a more potent outlet.

Suicidal tendencies – Some perpetrators engage in mass shootings as a way to commit suicide. They may be angry at someone or the world in general. But rather than committing suicide on their own, they may want to target people first. And easy access to guns makes it possible. After the shooting, the perpetrator commits suicide or is killed by law enforcement agencies.

Drug abuse – Despite serious crackdown on drugs by law enforcement agencies, the number of drug abuse cases are on the rise. People are being influenced through various sources, which presents the use of drugs as something cool. Many of the mass shooting perpetrators had a history of alcohol abuse or recreational drug use.

It is apparent that there are multiple reasons for rising cases of mass shootings. However, more effective gun control laws can certainly help reduce the number of mass shootings. Whether or not steps are taken in that direction remains to be seen.

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Scammers are getting smarter every day and coming up with entirely new methods to cheat people. In case you communicate with a professional scamster, it may be difficult to determine whether they are fake or genuine. They have your phone number and possibly name and other details. Such information can be used to masquerade as a genuine caller from a bank or government organization.

There are various ways in which people are getting scammed. Lack of awareness is often the root cause. If you or someone you know has been scammed, it may still be possible to recover the money. You need to act fast and follow the guidelines. Here����ֱ�� what you can do to recover your money from scammers.

Debit or credit card transaction – You need to contact the bank that has issued the debit or credit card. Explain the situation to them and request them to reverse the fraudulent charge. It may be possible to recover your money from scammers in this manner.

Unauthorized bank transfer – Here too, you need to contact your bank and explain the situation. Tell them that there has been an unauthorized withdrawal or debit transaction in your bank account. Request them to reverse the transaction and give you your money back.

Payment made via gift card – Scammers often attempt to get you into buying a gift card and revealing the details. In case you have been scammed via a gift card, you need to contact the company that has issued the gift card. Provide all the details of the gift card that you had purchased. Request the company to block or reverse the transaction.

Payment via wire transfer – Scammers often use wire transfer platforms like MoneyGram, Western Union, Ria, etc. to cheat people. You need to contact the respective platform in case you have been scammed. All these platforms have dedicated toll free numbers to assist customers. You need to ask them to reverse the transaction.

Money transfer app – Dozens of apps are available that allow people to send and receive money. If you have been scammed in this manner, you need to contact the company that is running the app. In case the app is linked to your debit card or credit card, you need to contact your bank.

Payment made via cryptocurrency – It is quite difficult to reverse cryptocurrency transactions. Unless, the scammer himself sends back the money to you. That is quite unlikely. However, you can still contact the company that you used to transfer the cryptocurrency. They could have special provisions to deal with such situations.

Cash sent via U.S. mail – In some cases, scammers may force you into sending cash via U.S. mail. In such cases, you need to approach the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455. Report the fraud and request them to intercept the package.

As evident from above, there are various ways in which you can recover your money from scammers. It is not guaranteed to work every time, but at least you can give it a try. You also need to report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

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