#FactCheck-RBI's Alleged Guidelines on Ink Colour for Cheque Writing

Introduction

Attempts at countering the spread of misinformation can include various methods and differing degrees of engagement by different stakeholders. The inclusion of Artificial Intelligence, user awareness and steps taken on the part of the public at a larger level, focus on innovation to facilitate clear communication can be considered in the fight to counter misinformation. This becomes even more important in spaces that deal with matters of national security, such as the Indian army.

IIT Indore’s Intelligent Communication System

As per a report in Hindustan Times on 14th November 2024, IIT Indore has achieved a breakthrough on their project regarding Intelligent Communication Systems. The project is supported by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), as part of a specialised 6G research initiative (Bharat 6G Alliance) for innovation in 6G technology.

Professors at IIT Indore claim that the system they are working on has features different from the ones currently in use. They state that the receiver system can recognise coding, interleaving (a technique used to enhance existing error-correcting codes), and modulation methods together in situations of difficult environments, which makes it useful for transmitting information efficiently and securely, and thus could not only be used for telecommunication but the army as well. They also mention that previously, different receivers were required for different scenarios, however, they aim to build a system that has a single receiver that can adapt to any situation.

Previously, in another move that addressed the issue of misinformation in the army, the Ministry of Defence designated the Additional Directorate General of Strategic Communication in the Indian Army as the authorised officer to issue take-down notices regarding instances of posts consisting of illegal content and misinformation concerning the Army. 

Recommendations

Here are a few policy implications and deliberations one can explore with respect to innovations geared toward tackling misinformation within the army:

1. Research and Development: In this context, investment and research in better communication through institutes have enabled a system that ensures encrypted and secure communication, which helps with ways to combat misinformation for the army.
2. Strategic Deployment: Relevant innovations can focus on having separate pilot studies testing sensitive data in the military areas to assess their effectiveness.
3. Standardisation: Once tested, a set parameter of standards regarding the intelligence communication systems used can be encouraged.
4. Cybersecurity integration: As misinformation is largely spread online, innovation in such fields can encourage further exploration with regard to integration with Cybersecurity.

Conclusion

The spread of misinformation during modern warfare can have severe repercussions. Sensitive and clear data is crucial for safe and efficient communication as a lot is at stake. Innovations that are geared toward combating such issues must be encouraged, for they not only ensure efficiency and security with matters related to defence but also combat misinformation as a whole.

References

1. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/indore/iit-indore-unveils-groundbreaking-intelligent-receivers-for-enhanced-6g-and-military-communication-security/articleshow/115265902.cms
2. https://www.hindustantimes.com/technology/6g-technology-and-intelligent-receivers-will-ease-way-for-army-intelligence-operations-iit-official-101731574418660.html

Introduction to Grooming

The term grooming is believed to have been first used by a group of investigators in the 1970s to describe patterns of seduction of an offender towards a child. It eventually evolved and began being commonly used by law enforcement agencies and has now replaced the term seduction for this behavioural pattern. At its core, grooming refers to conditioning a child by an adult offender to further their wrong motives. In its most popular sense, it refers to the sexual victimisation of children whereby an adult befriends a minor and builds an emotional connection to sexually abuse, exploit and even trafficking such a victim. The onset of technology has shifted the offline physical proximity of perpetrators to the internet, enabling groomers to integrate themselves completely into the victim’s life by maintaining consistent contact. It is noted that while grooming can occur online and offline, groomers often establish online contact before moving the ‘relationship’ offline to commit sexual offences.

Underreporting and Vulnerability of Teenagers

Given the elusive nature of the crime, cyber grooming remains one of the most underreported crimes by victims, who are often unaware or embarrassed to share their experiences. Teenagers are particularly more susceptible to cyber grooming since they not only have more access to the internet but also engage in more online risk-taking behaviours such as posting sensitive and personal pictures. Studies indicate that individuals aged 18 to 23 often lack awareness regarding the grooming process. They frequently engage in relationships with groomers without recognising the deceptive and manipulative tactics employed, mistakenly perceiving these relationships as consensual rather than abusive.

Rise of Cyber Grooming incidents after COVID-19 pandemic

There has been an uptick in cyber grooming after the COVID-19 pandemic, whereby an adult poses as a teenager or a child and befriends a minor on child-friendly websites or social media outlets and builds an emotional connection with the victim. The main goal is to obtain intimate and personal data of the minor, often in the form of sexual chats, pictures or videos, to threaten and coerce them into continuing such acts. The grooming process usually begins with seemingly harmless inquiries about the minor's age, interests, and family background. Over time, these questions gradually shift to topics concerning sexual experiences and desires. Research and data indicate that online grooming is primarily carried out by males, who frequently choose their victims based on attractiveness, ease of access, and the ability to exploit the minor's vulnerabilities. 

Beyond Sexual Exploitation: Ideological and Commercial Grooming

Grooming is not confined to sexual exploitation. The rise of technology has expanded the influence of extremist ideological groups, granting them access to children who can be coerced into adopting their beliefs. This phenomenon, known as ideological grooming, presents significant personal, social, national security, and law enforcement challenges. Additionally, a new trend, termed digital commercial grooming, involves malicious actors manipulating minors into procuring and using drugs. Violent extremists are improving their online recruitment strategies, learning from each other to target and recruit supporters more effectively and are constantly leveraging children’s vulnerabilities to reinforce anti-government ideologies.

Policy Recommendations to Combat Cyber Grooming

To address the pervasive issue of cyber grooming and child recruitment by extremist groups, several policy recommendations can be implemented. Social media and online platforms should enhance their monitoring and reporting systems to swiftly detect and remove grooming behaviours. This includes investing in AI technologies for content moderation and employing dedicated teams to respond to reports promptly. Additionally, collaborative efforts with cybersecurity experts and child psychologists to develop educational campaigns and tools that teach children about online safety and identify grooming tactics should be mandated. Legislation should also be strengthened to include provisions specifically addressing cyber grooming, ensuring strict penalties for offenders and protections for victims. In this regard, international cooperation among law enforcement agencies and tech companies is essential to create a unified approach to tackling cross-border online threats to children's safety and security.

References:

1. Lanning, Kenneth “The Evolution of Grooming: Concept and Term”, Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 2018, Vol. 33 (1) 5-16. https://www.nationalcac.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/The-evolution-of-grooming-Concept-and-term.pdf 
2. Jonie Chiu, Ethel Quayle, “Understanding online grooming: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of adolescents' offline meetings with adult perpetrators”, Child Abuse & Neglect, Volume 128, 2022, 105600, ISSN 0145-2134,https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.105600. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S014521342200120X 
3. “Online child sexual exploitation and abuse”, Sharinnf Electronic Resources on Laws and Crime, United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime. https://sherloc.unodc.org/cld/en/education/tertiary/cybercrime/module-12/key-issues/online-child-sexual-exploitation-and-abuse.html 
4. Mehrotra, Karishma, “In the pandemic, more Indian children are falling victim to online grooming for sexual exploitation” The Scroll.in, 18 September 2021. https://scroll.in/magazine/1005389/in-the-pandemic-more-indian-children-are-falling-victim-to-online-grooming-for-sexual-exploitation 
5. Lorenzo-Dus, Nuria, “Digital Grooming: Discourses of Manipulation and Cyber-Crime”, 18 December 2022 https://academic.oup.com/book/45362
6. Strategic orientations on a coordinated EU approach to prevention of radicalisation in 2022-2023 https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2022-03/2022-2023%20Strategic%20orientations%20on%20a%20coordinated%20EU%20approach%20to%20prevention%20of%20radicalisation_en.pdf 
7. “Handbook on Children Recruited and Exploited by Terrorist and Violent Extremist Groups: The Role of the Justice System”, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2017. https://www.unodc.org/documents/justice-and-prison-reform/Child-Victims/Handbook_on_Children_Recruited_and_Exploited_by_Terrorist_and_Violent_Extremist_Groups_the_Role_of_the_Justice_System.E.pdf 

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Introduction

In the age of digital advancement, where technology continually grows, so does the method of crime. The rise of cybercrime has created various threats to individuals and organizations, businesses, and government agencies. To combat such crimes law enforcement agencies are looking out for innovative solutions against these challenges. One such innovative solution is taken by the Surat Police in Gujarat, who have embraced the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to bolster their efforts in reducing cybercrimes.

Key Highlights

Surat, India, has launched an AI-based WhatsApp chatbot called "Surat Police Cyber Mitra Chatbot" to tackle growing cybercrime. The chatbot provides quick assistance to individuals dealing with various cyber issues, ranging from reporting cyber crimes to receiving safety tips. The initiative is the first of its kind in the country, showcasing Surat Police's dedication to using advanced technology for public safety. Surat Police Commissioner-in-Charge commended the use of AI in crime control as a positive step forward, while also stressing the need for continuous improvements in various areas, including technological advancements, data acquisition related to cybercrime, and training for police personnel.

The Surat Cyber Mitra Chatbot, available on WhatsApp number 9328523417, offers round-the-clock assistance to citizens, allowing them to access crucial information on cyber fraud and legal matters. 

Surat Police's AI Chatbot: Cyber Mitra

• Surat Police in Gujarat, India, has launched an AI-based WhatsApp chatbot, "Surat Police Cyber Mitra Chatbot," to combat growing cybercrime.
• The chatbot provides assistance to individuals dealing with various cyber issues, from reporting cyber crimes to receiving safety tips.
• The initiative is the first of its kind in the country, showcasing Surat Police's dedication to using advanced technology for public safety.
• The Surat Cyber Mitra Chatbot, available on WhatsApp number 9328523417, offers round-the-clock assistance to citizens, providing crucial information on cyber fraud.

The Growing Cybercrime Threat

With the advancement of technology, cybercrime has become more complex due to the interconnectivity of digital devices and the internet. The criminals exploit vulnerabilities in software, networks, and human behavior to perpetrate a wide range of malicious activities to fulfill their illicit gains. Individuals and organizations face a wide range of cyber risks that can cause significant financial, reputational, and emotional harm. 

Surat Police’s Strategic Initiative

Surat Police Cyber Mitra Chatbot is an AI-powered tool for instant problem resolution. This innovative approach allows citizens to address any issue or query at their doorstep, providing immediate and accurate responses to concerns. The chatbot is accessible 24/7, 24 hours a day, and serves as a reliable resource for obtaining legal information related to cyber fraud.

The use of AI in police initiatives has been a topic of discussion for some time, and the Surat City Police has taken this step to leverage technology for the betterment of society. The chatbot promises to boost public trust towards law enforcement and improve the legal system by addressing citizen issues within seconds, ranging from financial disputes to cyber fraud incidents.

This accessibility extends to inquiries such as how to report financial crimes or cyber-fraud incidents and understand legal procedures. The availability of accurate information will not only enhance citizens' trust in the police but also contribute to the efficiency of law enforcement operations. The availability of accurate information will lead to more informed interactions between citizens and the police, fostering a stronger sense of community security and collaboration.

The utilisation of this chatbot will facilitate access to information and empower citizens to engage more actively with the legal system. As trust in the police grows and legal processes become more transparent and accessible, the overall integrity and effectiveness of the legal system are expected to improve significantly.

Conclusion

The Surat Police Cyber Mitra Chatbot is an AI-powered tool that provides round-the-clock assistance to citizens, enhancing public trust in law enforcement and streamlining access to legal information. This initiative bridges the gap between law enforcement and the community, fostering a stronger sense of security and collaboration, and driving improvements in the efficiency and integrity of the legal process.

References:

• https://www.ahmedabadmirror.com/surat-first-city-in-india-to-launch-ai-chatbot-to-tackle-cybercrime/81861788.html
• https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/secure-india/gujarat-surat-police-adopts-ai-to-check-cyber-crimes/107410981
• https://www.timesnownews.com/india/chatbot-and-advanced-analytics-surat-police-utilising-ai-technology-to-reduce-cybercrime-article-107397157
• https://www.grownxtdigital.in/technology/surat-police-ai-cyber-mitra-chatbot-gujarat/

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