#FactCheck: IAF Shivangi Singh was captured by Pakistan army after her Rafale fighter jet was shot down
Executive Summary:
False information spread on social media that Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh, India’s first female Rafale pilot, had been captured by Pakistan during “Operation Sindoor”. The allegations are untrue and baseless as no credible or official confirmation supports the claim, and Singh is confirmed to be safe and actively serving. The rumor, likely originating from unverified sources, sparked public concern and underscored the serious threat fake news poses to national security.
Claim:
An X user posted stating that “ Initial image released of a female Indian Shivani singh Rafale pilot shot down in Pakistan”. It was falsely claimed that Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh had been captured, and that the Rafale aircraft was shot down by Pakistan.
Fact Check:
After doing reverse image search, we found an instagram post stating the two Indian Air Force pilots—Wing Commander Tejpal (50) and trainee Bhoomika (28)—who had ejected from a Kiran Jet Trainer during a routine training sortie from Bengaluru before it crashed near Bhogapuram village in Karnataka. The aircraft exploded upon impact, but both pilots were later found alive, though injured and exhausted.
Also we found a youtube channel which is showing the video from the past and not what it was claimed to be.
Conclusion:
The false claims about Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh being captured by Pakistan and her Rafale jet being shot down have been debunked. The image used was unrelated and showed IAF pilots from a separate training incident. Several media also confirmed that its video made no mention of Ms. Singh’s arrest. This highlights the dangers of misinformation, especially concerning national security. Verifying facts through credible sources and avoiding the spread of unverified content is essential to maintain public trust and protect the reputation of those serving in the armed forces.
- Claim: False claims about Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh being captured by Pakistan and her Rafale jet being shot down
- Claimed On: Social Media
- Fact Check: False and Misleading
Related Blogs
Executive Summary:
The claim of a video of US President Joe Biden dozing off during a television interview is digitally manipulated . The original video is from a 2011 incident involving actor and singer Harry Belafonte. He seems to fall asleep during a live satellite interview with KBAK – KBFX - Eyewitness News. Upon thorough analysis of keyframes from the viral video, it reveals that US President Joe Biden’s image was altered in Harry Belafonte's video. This confirms that the viral video is manipulated and does not show an actual event involving President Biden.
Claims:
A video shows US President Joe Biden dozing off during a television interview while the anchor tries to wake him up.
Fact Check:
Upon receiving the posts, we watched the video then divided the video into keyframes using the inVid tool, and reverse-searched one of the frames from the video.
We found another video uploaded on Oct 18, 2011 by the official channel of KBAK - KBFX - Eye Witness News. The title of the video reads, “Official Station Video: Is Harry Belafonte asleep during live TV interview?”
The video looks similar to the recent viral one, the TV anchor could be heard saying the same thing as in the viral video. Taking a cue from this we also did some keyword searches to find any credible sources. We found a news article posted by Yahoo Entertainment of the same video uploaded by KBAK - KBFX - Eyewitness News.
Upon thorough investigation from reverse image search and keyword search reveals that the recent viral video of US President Joe Biden dozing off during a TV interview is digitally altered to misrepresent the context. The original video dated back to 2011, where American Singer and actor Harry Belafonte was the actual person in the TV interview but not US President Joe Biden.
Hence, the claim made in the viral video is false and misleading.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the viral video claiming to show US President Joe Biden dozing off during a television interview is digitally manipulated and inauthentic. The video is originally from a 2011 incident involving American singer and actor Harry Belafonte. It has been altered to falsely show US President Joe Biden. It is a reminder to verify the authenticity of online content before accepting or sharing it as truth.
- Claim: A viral video shows in a television interview US President Joe Biden dozing off while the anchor tries to wake him up.
- Claimed on: X (Formerly known as Twitter)
- Fact Check: Fake & Misleading
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Introduction
Raksha Bandhan is a cherished festival which is celebrated every year on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravan. It is a festival that represents the love, care, and protection that siblings share. This year, Raksha Bandhan falls on 09th August 2025. On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread known as Rakhi on their brothers' wrists as a symbol of love and protection, and in return, brothers promise to safeguard them in all walks of life. The origin of this festival traces back to the Mahabharata, when lord Krishna injured his finger. To bandage the wound, Draupadi, also known as Panchali, tore a piece of her saree and tied it on Krishna's finger. Krishna was touched by her selfless gesture and promised to always protect her, a promise he fulfilled during Drapadi’s time of greatest need.
Today, in the evolving world driven by technology in all aspects of life, the nature of threats has evolved. In this digital age, physical safety alone is no longer enough. Alongside the traditional vow, there is now a growing need for another promise, the promise of Cyber Raksha (Cyber Safety). As we celebrate the spirit of Raksha Bandhan, this year also take the pledge of offering and taking care of the Cyber Suraksha of your sibling.
Ek Vaada Cyber Raksha ka
All the brothers and sisters share the bond of mutual care and responsibility. In the evolving threats of cybercrimes, they must understand the vulnerabilities they might face and the cyber safety tips they should be aware of to protect themselves. You must promise to guide, protect each other from online dangers, and help understand the importance of digital safety. Hence, this Raksha Bandhan, let’s also tie a knot of cyber awareness, responsibility, and digital protection, because true raksha in today’s age is not only about protection in the offline world, it is about protection in both the offline and online world.
CyberPeace has curated the following best practices for you to consider in your life and also to share with your sisters and brothers.
Password Security
It is most important to realise that cybercrooks mostly have their eyes on your passwords to target and gain access to your accounts or information. Scammers try multiple ways to get access to your passwords by way of various methods such as OTP frauds, Fake login pages (spoofing), Social engineering, Credential stuffing, Brute-force attacks, phishing, etc.
Quick Tips
- Use strong passwords.
- Regularly update passwords.
- Use separate passwords for different accounts.
- Use secure & trusted password managers.
- Use two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security.
- Make sure not to save passwords on random devices.
Social Media Security
There are endless cyber scams that take place through social media, such as identity theft, cyberbullying, cyber stalking, online harassment, data leaks, suspicious links leading to phishing and malware, exposure to inappropriate content, etc. It becomes important for netizens to protect their accounts, data, and online presence on social media platforms from the growing cyber threats.
Quick Tips
- Review app permissions and do not give any unnecessary app permissions.
- Keep your account private or customise your privacy settings as per your needs.
- Be cautious while interacting with strangers.
- Do not click on any suspicious or unknown links.
- Make sure to log out in case you have to log in to your social media on an unfamiliar device, and update your password to prevent unauthorised access.
- Always use Two-Factor authentication for your social media accounts.
- Avoid sharing too much of your personal information on the public story or public posts. This can be used by cybercriminals for social engineering.
- Use the report & block function to protect yourself from spam accounts and unwanted interactions.
- If you encounter any issue, report it to the ‘Platform’s reporting mechanism at the ‘Help Centre’.
- One can also reach out to the platform’s grievance officer.
Device Security
In today’s world, the interconnectedness is unavoidable, your devices, be it smartphones, tablets, laptops are not just tools, they are digital extensions of yourself. They contain your discussions, recollections, private information, and frequently your financial and professional information. Safeguarding your devices in the digital world can be equated with safeguarding your physical possessions against undesirable encroachments. Just like a sibling would never let anyone invade your privacy, you too must promise to keep your devices secured against malicious threats like malware, spyware, ransomware, and unauthorized access.
Quick Tips
- Update your apps, browsers, and operating systems frequently; these updates frequently contain security vulnerabilities.
- Install reliable anti-virus and anti-malware software, then perform routine device scans.
- Do not download files or apps from unidentified sources.
- Avoid using open or unprotected public Wi-Fi for private activities like email or banking.
- Employ screen locks (passwords, biometrics, or PINs) to stop unwanted physical access.
- Enable remote wipe or ‘find my Device’ functions in case your device is lost or stolen.
Digital Payments Security
Rakshabandhan is all about giving, but let’s not make it easy for cyber fraudsters to take! Convenience can come at a great cost. It often comes with a danger of fraud, phishing, and money-stealing schemes, as evidenced by the rise in digital payments and UPI transactions. But by being cautious, one can avoid being defrauded. Whether you’re gifting a sibling online or shopping for festive deals, promise yourself and your loved ones that you’ll transact wisely and safely.
Quick Tips
- Never give out your bank credentials, CVV, OTP, or UPI PIN to anyone, even if they seem trustworthy before extensively verifying their credentials.
- Before completing a transaction, confirm the account information or UPI ID.
- Refund or payment links sent by WhatsApp accounts or unknown numbers should not be clicked.
- Use only trusted apps (like BHIM, PhonePe, Google Pay, etc.) downloaded from official app stores.
Email Security
Your email serves as a key to your digital kingdom and serves as more than just a tool for communication. Your email frequently connects everything, from banking to social networking. Scammers use phishing assaults, malware attachments, and impersonation frauds to target it first. Just like a sibling watches your back, watch your inbox. Make a vow not to fall for the digital bait.
Quick tips
- Never open attachments or links in emails that seem strange or suspicious.
- Subject lines that evoke fear, such as “Account Suspended,” “Urgent Action Required” should be avoided.
- Verify the sender’s email address at all times because scammers frequently use little misspellings to deceive you.
- Set up two-factor authentication and create a secure, one of a kind password for your email accounts.
- Avoid using unprotected Wi-Fi networks or public computers to check your email.
- Avoid responding to spam emails or unsubscribing through dubious links as this could give the attacker your address.
Common scams to watch out for
Festive deals scams
As the festive season sales surge in India, so does the risk of cyber scams. Cyber crooks exploit the victims and urge them to share OTPs under the guise of preventing fraudulent activity, sharing malicious links to get sensitive information.
Mis-disinformation
The spread of mis-disinformation has surged on social media platforms. It spreads like wildfire across the digital landscape, and the need for effective strategies to counteract these challenges has grown exponentially in a very short period. ‘Prebunking’ and ‘Debunking’ are two approaches for countering the growing spread of misinformation online.
Deepfake and Voice cloning scams
By using the Deepfake technology, cybercriminals manipulate audio and video content which looks very realistic but, in actuality, is fake. Voice cloning is also a part of deepfake. To create a voice clone of anyone's, audio can be deepfaked too, which closely resembles a real one but, in actuality, is a fake voice created through deepfake technology.
Juice Jacking
Cybercriminals can hack your phone using or exploiting some public charging stations, such as at airports, Malls, hotel rooms, etc. When you plug your cell phone into a USB power charger, you may be plugging into a hacker. Juice jacking poses a security threat commonly at places that provide free charging stations for mobile devices.
Suspicious links & downloads
Suspicious links & downloads can lead you to a phishing site or install malware into your system, which can even lead to compromise your device, expose sensitive data, and cause financial losses.
Conclusion
This Rakhi, ensure your and your sibling’s online safety and security by being cybersafe and smart. You can seek assistance from the CyberPeace Helpline at helpline@cyberpeace.net
Introduction
Online dating platforms have become a common way for individuals to connect in today’s digital age. For many in the LGBTQ+ community, especially in environments where offline meeting spaces are limited, these platforms offer a way to find companionship and support. However, alongside these opportunities come serious risks. Users are increasingly being targeted by cybercrimes such as blackmail, sextortion, identity theft, and online harassment. These incidents often go unreported due to stigma and concerns about privacy. The impact of such crimes can be both emotional and financial, highlighting the need for greater awareness and digital safety.
Cybercrime On LGBTQ+ Dating Apps: A Threat Landscape
According to the NCRB 2022 report, there has been a 24.4% increase in cybercrimes. But unfortunately, the queer community-specific data is not available. Cybercrimes that target LGBTQ+ users in very organised and predatory. In several Indian cities, gangs actively monitor dating platforms to the point that potential victims, especially young queers and those who seem discreet about their identity, become targets. Once the contact is established, perpetrators use a standard operating process, building false trust, forcing private exchanges, and then gradually starting blackmail and financial exploitation. Many queer victims are blackmailed with threats of exposure to families or workplaces, often by fake police demanding bribes. Fear of stigma and insensitive policing discourages reporting. Cyber criminal gangs exploit these gaps on dating apps. Despite some arrests, under-reporting persists, and activists call for stronger platform safety.
Types of Cyber Crimes against Queer Community on Dating Apps
- Romance scam or “Lonely hearts scam”: Scammers build trust with false stories (military, doctors, NGO workers) and quickly express strong romantic interest. They later request money, claiming emergencies. They often try to create multiple accounts to avoid profile bans.
- Sugar daddy scam: In this type of scam, the fraudster offers money or allowance in exchange for things like chatting, sending photos, or other interactions. They usually offer a specific amount and want to use some uncommon payment gateways. After telling you they will send you a lot of money, they often make up a story like: “My last sugar baby cheated me, so now you must first send me a small amount to prove you are trustworthy.” This is just a trick to make you send them money first.
- Sextortion / Blackmail scam: Scammers record explicit chats or pretend to be underage, then threaten exposure unless you pay. Some target discreet users. Never send explicit content or pay blackmailers.
- Investment Scams: Scammers posing as traders or bankers convince victims to invest in fake opportunities. Some "flip" small amounts to build trust, then disappear with larger sums. Real investors won’t approach you on dating apps. Don’t share financial info or transfer money.
- Pay-Before-You-Meet scam: Scammer demands upfront payment (gift cards, gas money, membership fees) before meeting, then vanishes. Never pay anyone before meeting in person.
- Security app registration scam: Scammers ask you to register on fake "security apps" to steal your info, claiming it ensures your safety. Research apps before registering. Be wary of quick link requests.
- The Verification code scam: Scammers trick you into giving them SMS verification codes, allowing them to hijack your accounts. Never share verification codes with anyone.
- Third-party app links: Mass spam messages with suspicious links that steal info or infect devices. Don’t click suspicious links or “Google me” messages.
- Support message scam: Messages pretending to be from application support, offering prizes or fake shows to lure you to malicious sites.
Platform Accountability & Challenges
The issue of online dating platforms in India is characterised by weak grievance redressal, poor takedown of abusive profiles, and limited moderation practices. Most platforms appoint grievance officers or offer an in-app complaint portal, but complaints are often unanswered or receive only automated and AI-generated responses. This highlights the gap between policy and enforcement on the ground.
Abusive or fake profiles, often used for scams, hate crimes, and outing LGBTQ+ individuals, remain active long after being reported. In India, organised extortion gangs have exploited such profiles to lure, assault, rob, and blackmail queer men. Moderation teams often struggle with backlogs and lack the resources needed to handle even the most serious complaints.
Despite offering privacy settings and restricting profile visibility, moderation practices in India are still weak, leaving large segments of users vulnerable to impersonation, catfishing, and fraud. The concept of pseudonymisation can help protect vulnerable communities, but it is difficult to distinguish authentic users from malicious actors without robust, privacy-respecting verification systems.
Since many LGBTQ+ individuals prefer to maintain their confidentiality, while others are more vocal about their identities, in either case, the data shared by an individual with an online dating platform must be vigilantly protected. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, mandates the protection of personal data. Section 8(4) provides: “A Data Fiduciary shall implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure effective observance of the provisions of this Act and the rules made thereunder.” Accordingly, digital platforms collecting such data should adopt the necessary technical and organisational measures to comply with data protection laws.
Recommendations
The Supreme Court has been proactive in this regard, through decisions like Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India, which decriminalised same-sex relationships. Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) v. Union of India and Ors., acknowledged the right to privacy as a fundamental right, and, most recently, the 2025 affirmation of the right to digital access. However, to protect LGBTQ+ people online, more robust legal frameworks are still required.
There is a requirement for a dedicated commission or an empowered LGBTQ+ cell. Like the National Commission for Women (NCW), which works to safeguard the rights of women, a similar commission would address community-specific issues, including cybercrime, privacy violations, and discrimination on digital platforms. It may serve as an institutional link between the victim, the digital platforms, the government, and the police. Dating Platforms must enhance their security features and grievance mechanisms to safeguard the users.
Best Practices
Scammers use data sets and plans to target individuals seeking specific interests, such as love, sex, money, or association. Do not make financial transactions, such as signing up for third-party platforms or services. Scammers may attempt to create accounts for others, which can be used to access dating platforms and harm legitimate users. Users should be vigilant about sharing sensitive information, such as private images, contact information, or addresses, as scammers can use this information to threaten users. Stay smart, stay cyber safe.
References
- https://www.hindustantimes.com/htcity/cinema/16yearold-queer-child-pranshu-dies-by-suicide-due-to-bullying-did-we-fail-as-a-society-mental-health-expert-opines-101701172202794.html#google_vignette
- https://www.ijsr.net/archive/v11i6/SR22617213031.pdf
- https://help.grindr.com/hc/en-us/articles/1500009328241-Scam-awareness-guide
- http://meity.gov.in/static/uploads/2024/06/2bf1f0e9f04e6fb4f8fef35e82c42aa5.pdf
- https://mib.gov.in/sites/default/files/2024-02/IT%28Intermediary%20Guidelines%20and%20Digital%20Media%20Ethics%20Code%29%20Rules%2C%202021%20English.pdf
