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Cybersecurity experts warn of risks in viral 1980s AI photo trend
Cybersecurity experts and law enforcement agencies are warning against a viral social media trend involving AI-driven applications that transform personal photographs into 1980s-style retro images. While appearing to be harmless entertainment, these tools can serve as fronts for large-scale data collection and cybercrime.
In India, the Karnataka Police and the Hyderabad Cyber Crimes unit have issued specific advisories. Officials warn that fraudulent applications and malicious APK files may be circulated via WhatsApp, SMS, or social media links. These fake apps often request excessive permissions to access sensitive device information, including SMS messages, OTPs, contacts, files, and banking or UPI credentials, potentially leading to financial fraud and identity theft.
Dr. Mohamed Mohsen Ramadan, Head of the AI and Cybersecurity Unit at the Arab Center for Research and Studies, noted that AI analyzes images in extreme detail—examining facial features, lighting, and composition—to create valuable datasets. Experts emphasize that the risk lies in the lack of awareness regarding what happens to photos once uploaded to unverified platforms. Users are urged to avoid downloading apps from unknown sources, refrain from clicking suspicious links, and carefully review all app permissions before installation.
Entities
Arab Center for Research and Studies · Hyderabad Cyber Crimes unit · Karnataka Police · Madanayakanahalli Police · Mohamed Mohsen Ramadan
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Repeatedly uploading photos from different angles provides platforms with a wide collection of visual data for identity theft or fraud. ts.mk · tv21.tv · javanews.al
- [● 3 SOURCES] Fake links and unknown applications exploit user curiosity by offering free image transformations. ts.mk · tv21.tv · javanews.al
- [● 3 SOURCES] The 1980s-style photo transformation trend can be used as a tool to collect users' visual and personal data. ts.mk · tv21.tv · javanews.al
- [● 3 SOURCES] AI analyzes images in detail, including facial features, lighting, and composition, to create valuable databases. ts.mk · tv21.tv · javanews.al