#FactCheck - AI-Generated Image Falsely Shared as ‘Border 2’ Shooting Photo Goes Viral
Executive Summary
Border 2 is set to hit theatres today, January 23. Meanwhile, a photograph is going viral on social media showing actors Sunny Deol, Suniel Shetty, Akshaye Khanna and Jackie Shroff sitting together and having a meal, while a woman is seen serving food to them. Social media users are sharing this image claiming that it was taken during the shooting of Border 2. It is being alleged that the photograph shows a moment from the film’s set, where the actors were having food during a break in shooting. However, Cyber Peace research has found the viral claim to be false. Our investigation revealed that users are sharing an AI-generated image with a misleading claim.
Claim
On Instagram, a user shared the viral image on January 9, 2026, with the caption: “During the shooting of Border 2.” The link to the post, its archive link and screenshots can be seen below.
Fact Check:
To verify the claim, we first checked Google for the official star cast of the film Border 2. Our search showed that the names of the actors seen in the viral image are not part of the film’s officially announced cast. Next, upon closely examining the image, we noticed that the facial structure and expressions of the actors appeared unnatural and distorted. The facial features did not look realistic, raising suspicion that the image might have been created using Artificial Intelligence (AI). We then scanned the viral image using the AI-generated content detection tool HIVE Moderation. The results indicated that the image is 95 per cent AI-generated.
In the final step of our investigation, we analysed the image using another AI-detection tool, Undetectable AI. According to the results, the viral image was confirmed to be AI-generated.
Conclusion:
Our research confirms that social media users are sharing an AI-generated image while falsely claiming that it is from the shooting of Border 2. The viral claim is misleading and false.
Our research revealed that users are sharing an AI-generated image along with misleading claims
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Executive Summary
A purported video of Hindi news channel Aaj Tak anchor Anjana Om Kashyap is being widely shared on social media. In the viral clip, Kashyap appears to be apologising and questioning her own journalistic credibility. The CyberPeace Research Wing research found the claim to be false. The probe revealed that the viral video was created by manipulating an original video of Anjana Om Kashyap. Her voice and statements were altered to falsely portray her as issuing an apology, whereas she made no such remarks in the original footage.
Claim:
A YouTube user shared the viral video claiming that Anjana Om Kashyap was apologising. The post can be seen here:
Fact Check
The keyframes of the viral video were analysed using reverse image search. During the research , the original reel was found on Anjana Om Kashyap’s Instagram account, where it was posted on December 26, 2023. In the original reel, Kashyap is seen praising Bihar. At no point does she apologise or make any statements similar to those heard in the viral clip.
Further research led to the original version of the video on Anjana Om Kashyap’s YouTube channel, uploaded on October 17, 2023. According to the video description, the speech was delivered during the ‘Bihar Meet’ event organised by the Indian People Forum in the UAE. Notably, none of the statements heard in the viral clip appear in the original speech.
The viral video was also analysed using the AI-detection tool Hive Moderation, which indicated a high likelihood of AI-generated or deepfake manipulation.
Conclusion
The research found that the viral video has been digitally altered and falsely shared on social media. The original video of Anjana Om Kashyap was edited, and the audio was manipulated to create the misleading impression that she was apologising. No such statement was made by her in the authentic video.
Executive Summary:
A viral claim circulating on social media suggests that the Indian government is offering a 50% subsidy on tractor purchases under the so-called "Kisan Tractor Yojana." However, our research reveals that the website promoting this scheme, allegedly under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, is misleading. This report aims to inform readers about the deceptive nature of this claim and emphasize the importance of safeguarding personal information against fraudulent schemes.
Claim:
A website has been circulating misleading information, claiming that the Indian government is offering a 50% subsidy on tractor purchases under the so-called "Kisan Tractor Yojana." Additionally, a YouTube video promoting this scheme suggests that individuals can apply by submitting certain documents and paying a small, supposedly refundable application fee.
Fact Check:
Our research has confirmed that there is no scheme by the Government of India named 'PM Kisan Tractor Yojana.' The circulating announcement is false and appears to be an attempt to defraud farmers through fraudulent means.
While the government does provide various agricultural subsidies under recognized schemes such as the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi and the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM), no such initiative under the name 'PM Kisan Tractor Yojana' exists. This misleading claim is, therefore, a phishing attempt aimed at deceiving farmers and unlawfully collecting their personal or financial information.
Farmers and stakeholders are advised to rely only on official government sources for scheme-related information and to exercise caution against such deceptive practices.
To assess the authenticity of the “PM Kisan Tractor Yojana” claim, we reviewed the websites farmertractoryojana.in and tractoryojana.in. Our analysis revealed several inconsistencies, indicating that these websites are fraudulent.
As part of our verification process, we evaluated tractoryojana.in using Scam Detector to determine its trustworthiness. The results showed a low trust score, raising concerns about its legitimacy. Similarly, we conducted the same check for farmertractoryojana.in, which also appeared untrustworthy and risky. The detailed results of these assessments are attached below.
Given that these websites falsely present themselves as government-backed initiatives, our findings strongly suggest that they are part of a fraudulent scheme designed to mislead and exploit individuals seeking genuine agricultural subsidies.
During our research, we examined the "How it Works" section of the website, which outlines the application process for the alleged “PM Kisan Tractor Yojana.” Notably, applicants are required to pay a refundable application fee to proceed with their registration. It is important to emphasize that no legitimate government subsidy program requires applicants to pay a refundable application fee.
Our research found that the address listed on the website, “69A, Hanuman Road, Vile Parle East, Mumbai 400057,” is not associated with any government office or agricultural subsidy program. This further confirms the website’s fraudulent nature. Farmers should verify subsidy programs through official government sources to avoid scams.
A key inconsistency is the absence of a verified social media presence. Most legitimate government programs maintain official social media accounts for updates and communication. However, these websites fail to provide any such official handles, further casting doubt on their authenticity.
Upon attempting to log in, both websites redirect to the same page, suggesting they may be operated by the same entity or individual. This further raises concerns about their legitimacy and reinforces the likelihood of fraudulent activity.
Conclusion:
Our research confirms that the "PM Kisan Tractor Yojana" claim is fraudulent. No such government scheme exists, and the websites promoting it exhibit multiple red flags, including low trust scores, a misleading application process requiring a refundable fee, a false address, and the absence of an official social media presence. Additionally, both websites redirect to the same page, suggesting they are operated by the same entity. Farmers are advised to rely on official government sources to avoid falling victim to such scams.
- Claim: PM-Kisan Tractor Yojana Government Offering Subsidy on tractors.
- Claimed On: Social Media
- Fact Check: False and Misleading
Introduction
Over the past few months, cybercriminals have upped the ante with highly complex methods targeting innocent users. One such scam is a new one that exploits WhatsApp users in India and globally. A seemingly harmless picture message is the entry point to stealing money and data. Downloading seemingly harmless images via WhatsApp can unknowingly install malware on your smartphone. This malicious software can compromise your banking applications, steal passwords, and expose your personal identity. With such malware-laced instant messages now making headlines, it is advised for netizens to exercise extreme caution while handling media received on messaging platforms.
How Does the WhatsApp Photo Scam Work?
Cybercriminals began embedding malicious code in images being shared on WhatsApp. Here is how the attack typically works:
- The user receives a WhatsApp message from an unknown number with an image.
- The image may appear harmless—a greeting, meme, or holiday card—but it's packed with hidden malware.
- When the user taps to download the image, the malware gets installed on the phone in silent mode.
- Once installed, the malware is able to capture keystrokes, read messages, swipe banking applications, swipe credentials, and even hijack device functionality.
- Allegedly, in its advanced versions, it can exploit two-factor authentication (2FA) and make unauthorised transactions.
Who Is Being Targeted?
This scam targets both Android and iPhone users, with a focus on vulnerable groups like senior citizens, busy workers during peak seasons, and members of WhatsApp groups flooded with forwarded messages. Experts warn that a single careless click is enough to compromise an entire device.
What Can the Malware Do?
Upon installation, the malware grants hackers a terrifying level of access:
- Track user activity via keylogging or screen capture.
- Pilfer banking credentials and initiate fund transfers automatically.
- Obtain SMS or app-based 2FA codes, evading security layers.
- Clone identity information, such as Aadhaar details, digital wallets, and email access.
- Control device operations, including the camera and microphone.
This level of intrusion can result in not just financial loss but long-term digital impersonation or blackmail.
Safety Measures for WhatsApp Users
- Never Download Media from Suspicious Numbers
Do not download any files or pictures, even if the content appears to be familiar, unless you have faith in the source. Spread this advice among family members, particularly the older generation.
- Turn off Auto-Download in WhatsApp Settings
Navigate to Settings > Storage and Data > Media Auto-Download. Switch off auto-download for mobile data, Wi-Fi, and roaming.
- Install and Update Mobile Security Apps
Ensure your phone is equipped with a good antivirus or mobile security app that is updated from time to time.
- Block and Report Potential Scammers
WhatsApp offers the ability to block and report senders in a straightforward manner. This ensures that it notifies the platform and others as well.
- Educate Your Community
Share your knowledge on cyber hygiene with family, friends, and colleagues. Many people fall victim simply because they aren't aware of the risks, staying informed and spreading the word can make a big difference.
Advisories and Response
The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) and other state cyber cells have released several alerts on increasing fraud via messaging platforms. Law enforcement agencies are appealing to the public not only to be vigilant but also to report any incident at once through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).
Conclusion
The WhatsApp photo scam is a stark reminder that not all dangers come with a warning. A picture can now be a Trojan horse, propagating silently from device to device and draining personal money. Do not engage with unwanted media, refresh and update your privacy and security settings. Cyber criminals survive on neglect and ignorance, but through digital hygiene and vigilance, we can fight against these types of emerging threats.
References
- https://www.opswat.com/blog/how-emerging-image-based-malware-attacks-threaten-enterprise-defenses
- https://www.indiatvnews.com/technology/news/whatsapp-photo-scam-alert-downloading-random-images-could-cost-you-big-2025-05-06-988855
- https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/what-is-the-whatsapp-image-scam-and-how-can-you-stay-safe-from-it-101744353412848.html
- https://faq.whatsapp.com/898107234497196/?helpref=uf_share
- https://www.welivesecurity.com/en/malware/malware-hiding-in-pictures-more-likely-than-you-think/
- https://faq.whatsapp.com/573786218075805
- https://www.reversinglabs.com/blog/malware-in-images
