11, Nov 2023
Information Technology for Education in India
Information technology (IT) is a vast and constantly evolving field that encompasses the use of computer systems, networks, and infrastructure to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data. It involves the design, development, implementation, and management of both hardware and software systems used in various organizations, businesses, and industries. IT professionals work with a range of technologies, including computers, networks, databases, and other digital systems, to solve problems, create efficiencies, and innovate in diverse areas.
Education in India has seen a significant integration of Information Technology (IT) over the years. Several initiatives and technological interventions have been implemented to improve access, quality, and outreach of education across the country. Here are some key aspects:
Digital Learning Platforms:
Online Learning: Platforms like Byju’s, Unacademy, and Khan Academy offer diverse courses and materials.
E-learning Portals: National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) and SWAYAM provide courses from IITs and other institutions.
Government Initiatives:
Digital India: A flagship program that aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society.
SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds): Provides online courses, especially for remote areas and rural students.
EdTech Startups:
Byju’s: One of the most successful EdTech startups in India, offering interactive learning programs.
Unacademy: Provides online classes and tutorials for various competitive exams.
Use of Technology in Schools and Colleges:
Smart Classrooms: Integration of smartboards, projectors, and multimedia tools for interactive teaching.
E-books and Online Resources: Many educational institutions are adopting digital libraries and resources.
Challenges:
Infrastructure: Disparities in access to technology and the internet between urban and rural areas.
Digital Literacy: Ensuring both teachers and students are proficient in using technology for education.
Quality of Content: Ensuring that the digital content provided is of high quality and standardized.
Future Prospects:
Adaptive Learning: Personalized learning experiences through AI and machine learning.
Increased Access: Improving internet penetration and access to technology in remote areas.
Skill Development: Integrating vocational training and skill development through digital platforms.
Educational paths in IT can range from certifications and vocational training to undergraduate and graduate degrees. Many universities and colleges offer specialized programs in IT, and there are numerous online courses and platforms available for learning specific IT skills.
The field is constantly evolving due to rapid technological advancements, so staying updated with the latest trends and technologies is crucial for a career in IT. Continuous learning and adapting to new tools and methods are essential in this field.
India’s journey in integrating IT in education has shown immense potential, but there’s a continual need for infrastructural development and ensuring equitable access across diverse demographics.
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- By Rabindra
11, Nov 2023
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Awarded Centre of Excellence in Life Sciences Sector
Bengaluru, 11 November 2023: In a landmark achievement, the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) has been recognized as the first Centre of Excellence in the Academic sector for Life Sciences. This prestigious certification was awarded by the Life Sciences Sector Skill Development Council (LSSSDC), New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in MAHE’s journey towards academic and professional excellence.
During a formal ceremony held at Manipal, Dr. Nivedita M, Senior Director of Assessment, Accreditation & Certification at LSSSDC, presented the Certificate of Excellence to Lt. Gen Dr. M D Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of MAHE. This momentous occasion also saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MAHE and LSSSDC, laying the foundation for future skilling activities for students and faculty in the Life Sciences sector.
The Centre for Pharmaceutical Skill Development (CPSD) at MAHE played a pivotal role in earning this distinction. Under the guidance of key personnel including Dr. Sharath K Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), Dr. Giridhar P Kini, Registrar of MAHE, Dr. C Mallikarjuna Rao, Principal of MCOPS, and Dr. Anup Naha, Coordinator of CPSD, along with Dr. Srinivas Hebbar, Co-coordinator of CPSD, the institution has demonstrated exceptional prowess in pharmaceutical education and skill development.
In celebration of this collaboration, a three-day skill-based training and certification program under LS-Pro was conducted by the CPSD, MAHE, with support from LSSSDC. The program, held from November 3rd to 6th, 2023, witnessed the participation of approximately 100 pharmacy students from the Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
These students were trained and certified by LSSSDC for roles in pharmaceutical marketing and sales, further emphasizing MAHE’s commitment to enhancing employability and industry readiness among its students.
The LSSSDC, functioning under the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) and the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), plays a crucial role as an advisory and monitoring body for industry engagement in apprenticeships. This recognition from such a reputed council solidifies MAHE’s standing as a leader in the field of Life Sciences education and skill development.
MAHE’s new status as a Centre of Excellence is not just an accolade but a responsibility to continue fostering a skilled workforce that can contribute significantly to the Life Sciences sector. This achievement is a testament to MAHE’s enduring commitment to excellence in education, research, and skill development.
11, Nov 2023
Health Precautions to Take During Diwali Season
Diwali, the festival of lights, is a wonderful celebration but can also pose health challenges. The festivities often involve fireworks, which can lead to air and noise pollution, impacting those with respiratory issues or sensitivity to loud sounds. Additionally, indulging in rich sweets and treats during Diwali might not always align with a healthy diet. It’s essential to balance the enjoyment of traditional foods with moderation.
It’s a beautiful festival filled with joy and celebrations, but it also comes with some health risks, especially due to the use of firecrackers and the associated air and noise pollution. Here are some precautions to consider during the Diwali season:
Air Quality Precautions:
Avoid Firecrackers: Opt for eco-friendly ways to celebrate, like lighting diyas (lamps) or using eco-friendly crackers if necessary.
Stay Indoors: Especially during peak fireworks hours, stay indoors to reduce exposure to pollution.
Air Purifiers: Consider using air purifiers indoors to maintain better air quality.
Protect Your Ears:
Ear Protection: If you’re around firecrackers, consider wearing earplugs to protect your ears from the loud noises.
Fire Safety:
Keep Fire Safety Measures in Place: If you are lighting lamps or candles, ensure they are placed safely and away from flammable objects. Have fire extinguishers handy.
Supervise Children: If they’re handling fireworks, ensure they’re under adult supervision.
Eye Safety:
Protective Eyewear: If you’re handling fireworks, wear protective glasses to prevent eye injuries.
Pet Safety:
Comfort Pets: Many animals are frightened by the loud noises. Keep them indoors and create a safe space for them to reduce anxiety.
Healthy Eating:
Diet: Enjoy traditional Diwali treats in moderation. Opt for healthier versions of sweets or smaller portions.
Mindful Eating: With all the festive treats, try to balance your diet with healthy options and stay hydrated.
Physical Safety:
Mind Your Steps: Be cautious of any wires or debris from fireworks on the ground to avoid accidents.
Environmental Responsibility:
Eco-friendly Celebrations: Opt for eco-friendly decoration materials and minimize waste generation.
Respect Others:
Consider Neighbors: Be mindful of your neighbors who might not be celebrating and might be affected by the noise and air pollution.
Post-Diwali Clean-Up:
Dispose of Waste Responsibly: Dispose of used fireworks and other waste responsibly to keep the surroundings clean.
Diwali is a time for joy and togetherness, so prioritizing both enjoyment and well-being is key
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the festivities of Diwali while ensuring your health and safety, as well as that of others and the environment.
11, Nov 2023
Karnataka aims to attract Rs 40,000 crore investment in KHIR City
Mumbai, 11 November: The Karnataka government today deliberated on the conceptualization of the development of Knowledge, Healthcare, Innovation and Research (KHIR) City on the outskirts of Bengaluru. The government aims to attract Rs 40,000 crore investment in the areas of healthcare, innovation, and knowledge sectors besides creating 80,000 jobs in the proposed KHIR City.
The new investment region will be spread over 2,000 acres within 60 km from Bengaluru and developed in a phased manner.
Addressing the Ideation Session for setting up KHIR City, Shri M B Patil, honourable minister for large and medium industries and infrastructure development said, “We are embarking on a transformative journey to build a city that goes beyond conventional boundaries — a Knowledge, Healthcare, Innovation & Research City (KHIR City).”
He further said, “Today, we have a diverse and influential group gathered here — from the Government, Medical Institutes, Private Companies, Research Centers, and Academia, to the Strategic Investment Committee of Karnataka. It’s a convergence of minds that holds tremendous potential and I believe, collectively, we possess the potential to create not just a city but a hub of excellence.”
Apart from ensuring job creation and attracting investments from leading global and Indian hospitals and research centres, universities and private companies, the initiative has the potential to contribute towards the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) due to increased economic activity. “Besides attracting investments, it is aimed at contributing at least Rs 1 lakh crore to the state GDP,” Shri Patil said.
The captains of the Indian industry drawn from healthcare, medical education, real estate, financial services, and insurance sectors attended the ideation session and shared their suggestions.
The industry representatives such as Shri Kris Gopalakrishnan, Dr Devi Prasad Shetty, Dr C N Manjunath, Smt Gitanjali Kirloskar, Shri Prashant Prakash, Shri Nitin Kamath, Dr Deepak Venugopalan, Dr Sharan Prakash Patil, and Dr L S Shashidhar among others participated in the session.
The proposed KHIR City is being developed to attract investments from leading global and national hospitals, research institutions, universities, private companies, etc. This will help in strengthening Bengaluru’s position as a hub of medical tourism, providing employment to local people, and also help in attracting skill sets from across the globe.
“Bengaluru has the largest skilled talent pool in India and is best suited for development of KHIR City. Karnataka has a strong innovation ecosystem with many global companies’ R&D units set up here. Leading healthcare players are already present in the state. About 60% of India’s biotech companies are in Karnataka,” said Shri Patil.
With Karnataka being home to 60 per cent of India’s biotech companies and over 350 medical devices and supplies manufacturers across categories, the development of KHIR near Bengaluru, the fastest-growing innovation cluster globally, augurs as an ideal location.
KHIR City is poised to redefine the city’s global position by fostering the growth of cutting-edge knowledge institutions, healthcare facilities, innovation hubs, and research centres.
Karnataka is already among the top five states in India in terms of economic value and contributes about 8.7 percent to the National GDP. Such initiatives further strengthen the state’s position in the country.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Priyank Kharge, honourable minister for IT/BT, and S&T said KHIR City will be the first such centre of knowledge which will have innovators from healthcare, knowledge and global research centres coming together in one place. “Bengaluru will transform from being a call centre of the world to a global centre of research and innovation,” he said.
The government is planning to come out with a separate policy to promote the medical tourism in the state, said Shri Kharge. The state is home to 350 medical device and suppliers across categories and multiple institutes of excellence are present providing collaboration opportunity, he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Kris Gopalkrishnan, Co-founder of Infosys and Chairman of Axilor Ventures said, “The implementation speed is important for the development of KHIR City. We need to first develop a metro station before the KHIR City takes shape. Also, we want to generate IPs owned by India or Karnataka so that jobs and wealth is created here. We need to have an institute which trains scientists and researchers on how to move from lab to market.”
The establishment of KHIR City has a strong global reference point with the Government of Karnataka aiming to bring this research city in line with Singapore’s Biopolis Cluster or Japan’s Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster.
For this, the Government of Karnataka is agile in terms of participation of private companies offering them formats via land lease model, special-project-vehicle, and fully private models.
The collaboration effort for KHIR City would involve a comprehensive plan and a clear objective from the interested entity along with timelines. The establishment of subgroups for strategic approach is also part of the collaboration along with commercial viability to ensure balanced private and government participation.
“We can also think of miniaturising this model in revenue division and whole objective is to promote job, talent, and knowledge in regions like Mysuru etc. There is a need to build neurology institute and genetics here as it is expensive to send it to other states and countries,” said Dr C N Manjunath, Director of Jayadeva Institute of Cardiac Sciences.
The industry representatives also suggested that the government to look at improving the skills of workers in the state that will be required for the setting up of a knowledge city. They also suggested focusing on life sciences and looking at holding a roadshow to attract capital into this sector.
“We should focus on IP-based research in this City. Transitioning Karnataka from a services economy to a higher-value IP-based economy is very important. We need to incentivize job creation. We should focus on giving incentives to people who create IP and this will differentiate Karnataka from other states in the country,” said Prashanth Prakash, Partner at Accel Partners.
“It is very important that hospital groups are partners in this city. Today largest investment is in healthcare startups but they do not understand how hospitals work. Once this city supports them, then the product that comes out in the market will bring startups and end user together,” said Dr Devi Prasad Shetty, Founder and Chairman of Narayana Health.
“There is the shortage of 50-70 million healthcare workers in the country. A Paramedical university is an urgent need. We want to set that up in the country because it is the nurses and other staff that takes care of the patient and not the doctors,” Dr Shetty added.
Dr S Selvakumar, Principal Secretary to the Government, Department of Commerce and Industries, Smt Ekroop Caur, Secretary, ITBT and S&T, Smt Gunjan Krishna, Commissioner, Department of Commerce and Industries, Government of Karnataka, and other officials of the government were present on the occasion.
11, Nov 2023
HOSMAT Tryst with ICC Tournaments in Bengaluru
Bengaluru(INDIA) 11 November 2023- Some key players who have been treated at HOSMAT are Mohammad Hussain, SMH Kirmani, Lance Klusner, Andrew Flintoff, Nayan Mongia, John Wright, VVS Lakshman, Gautham Gambhir, R P Singh, Paul Collinwood, Javagal Srinath Venkatesh Prasad, Anil Kumble, Mohammed Azharuddin, Sanjay Manjrekar, Sunil Joshi, Ajith Wadekar, G R Vishwanath, Manoj Prabhakar & many others.
HOSMAT spelt fully reads as Hospital for Orthopaedics, SPORTS MEDICINE, Arthritis, and Accident Trauma. The founder of HOSMAT Hospital is Dr Thomas Chandy, who is an experienced Orthopedic Surgeon (American Board Certified) and, he has fellowship in Sports Medicine from the University of Oklahoma, US, and was working in the US for 16 yrs. Since 1993, the hospital is providing the Medical Services to the Karnataka State Cricket Association and playing a major role in the rehabilitation of injured players.
The hospital is fully equipped and has handled various Indian and International players injuries, the hospital has a State of Art Physiotherapy dept to treat players. The Hospital can boast of the best equipment for sports-related injuries and is the closest hospital to the stadium and to the team hotel.
It has Specialists & 2 Neuro Surgeons, 250 beds, and 12 OTs. It also has high-resolution MRI, CT scanner, and Ultra Sound X-ray Fluoroscopy (C- Arms), which is available 10 minutes from the stadium.
At the Chinnaswamy stadium, doctors and staff from the hospital are stationed in the Players’ Medical Room (PMR) with 2 consultants in Orthopaedics and Emergency Medicine, One anaesthesia consultant. Well qualified Staff nurses and attenders.
The hospital also provides all the emergency equipment, which are needed during the matches, like a Portable digital x-ray machine, Portable Ventilator, Oxygen cylinders, Defibrillator, Cardiac Monitor, Pulse oximeter, and other basic equipment to check the BP and temperature. Suturing sets, Dressing sets, Splints of various sizes and Knee brace, spine braces arm slings, hand splints, etc.,
Says Dr Thomas Chandy, “On the match day 5 staff are on the ground near the boundary line and these staff are stationed to attend emergencies in the playing arena”. Dr Chandy goes on to say, “This team is comprising of One Emergency Medicine specialist Four trained Paramedics/Stretcher bearers well trained in trauma care/emergency department. As per the ICC guidelines, Drs and Staff are equipped with Spine Board, Cervical Collar of different Sizes. Intubation set, Laryngoscope, Defibrillator, Oxygen Cylinder 0f 10 L, Ambu bag”.
AMBULANCES:
The Hospital also provides 2 Advanced Cardiac Life Support Ambulances (ACLS) meant only for players.
These ACLS ambulance is manned by one trained paramedic along with a qualified nurse and a driver.
Hospital also provides Basic Life Support (BLS) with a dedicated ambulance meant for the Senior Members of KSCA.
The Hospital is equipped with a Dexa Scan which determines the fat distribution, and bone strength/bone density in the body. All the members of Indian Cricketers both Men and Women have undergone Dexa scan in the year 2018 and 2019. To name a few MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and among Women Harmanpet Kaur, Mithali raj… Based on the Dexa Scan report the nutritionist of the team will prescribe the diet to each player.
In a nutshell the hospital is the best equipped to take of players Injuries & Medical problems at Chinnaswamy stadium during all the international matches and since 1993 it is giving the best services. The hospital has given the medical services at Chinnaswamy stadium for the three world cups 1996 quarterfinal match between India and Pakistan, 2011 for all the world cup matches played at Chinnaswamy both Men and Women and now in 2023, the hospital is going to cover all the matches including the practice sessions. The hospital has also taken care of spectators’ cricket ball injuries during the international matches.
10, Nov 2023
Educate Your Child for the Development of Skill and Creativity
Education is an incredible journey that spans various forms of learning, whether formal or informal. It’s the process through which knowledge, skills, values, and habits are acquired. From early childhood through adulthood, education takes place in schools, colleges, universities, and through experiences in the world. It’s not just about textbooks and classrooms; it encompasses personal development, critical thinking, and the acquisition of practical skills that shape individuals and societies.
Education plays a crucial role in skill development and nurturing creativity. Here are some key aspects that can support this:
Skill Development:
Hands-On Learning: Practical application of knowledge is vital. Whether it’s through apprenticeships, internships, or project-based learning, hands-on experience is invaluable.
STEM Education: Emphasizing science, technology, engineering, and math helps in developing problem-solving skills and a strong foundation for various careers.
Arts and Humanities: Creativity thrives in artistic pursuits and the humanities. Encouraging expression through arts, music, literature, and other creative outlets can enhance critical thinking and innovative skills.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Teaching students to think critically, analyze, and solve problems enhances their adaptability in various situations.
Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, adaptability, and emotional intelligence are vital. Including these skills in the curriculum can prepare students for the modern workplace.
Fostering Creativity:
Encouraging Curiosity: Cultivating a love for learning and exploration is key to nurturing creativity. Encouraging questions and curiosity stimulates the creative mind.
Divergent Thinking: Promoting divergent thinking, where multiple solutions are encouraged for a problem, opens up creative possibilities.
Freedom for Expression: Allowing students the freedom to express themselves in different ways fosters creativity. This could be through writing, art, music, or even unconventional means.
Interdisciplinary Learning: Integrating different subjects helps students see connections and draw upon various fields to innovate.
Experiential Learning: Offering experiences that challenge students to think and create, like debates, simulations, or hands-on experiments, stimulates creativity.
Tools and Resources:
Technology Integration: Using technology as a tool for learning and creation opens new avenues for creative expression and skill development.
Access to Resources: Ensuring students have access to libraries, technology, mentors, and diverse learning materials can broaden their horizons.
Mentorship and Guidance: Mentors can play a crucial role in guiding and inspiring students in their creative and skill development journeys.
Continuous learning and upskilling in specific skills are becoming more and more essential in today’s dynamic job landscape, allowing individuals to remain competitive and adaptable in their careers
Remember, an education that balances skill development and creativity not only prepares individuals for the workforce but also equips them with the ability to adapt and innovate in an ever-changing world.
10, Nov 2023
How to Take Care of Your Health in Winter
Winter brings its own set of health considerations. Colder temperatures can affect our bodies in various ways. Staying warm is essential to avoid issues like hypothermia and frostbite. It’s also common for people to experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD) due to reduced exposure to sunlight, which can impact mood and energy levels. Furthermore, the flu and colds tend to be more prevalent during the winter months due to people spending more time indoors and in close proximity to one another.
It’s crucial to take care of your health during this time. Dressing warmly, staying active, eating well, and maintaining good hygiene by washing hands frequently can all contribute to staying healthy during the winter. Additionally, ensuring you get enough vitamin D, either through diet or supplements, can help counteract the lack of sunlight. Emotional well-being is just as important, so finding ways to stay socially engaged and combat the winter blues can make a significant difference.
Taking care of your health in winter is crucial to stay well during the colder months. Here are some tips to keep yourself healthy:
Nutrition:
Balanced Diet: Focus on a balanced, nutritious diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Vitamin Intake: Consider supplements like Vitamin D, as sunlight exposure might be reduced in winter.
Hydration: Stay hydrated even though you might not feel as thirsty as in hotter months.
Exercise:
Indoor Activities: Find indoor exercises that you enjoy, such as yoga, dancing, or home workouts.
Outdoor Activities: If weather permits, engage in outdoor activities like skiing, ice skating, or even brisk walks.
Hygiene:
Hand Hygiene: Maintain proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of colds and flu.
Immune Support: Consider immune-boosting habits like getting enough sleep and managing stress.
Clothing:
Layer Up: Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
Protective Gear: Wear appropriate winter gear to protect against cold and wet conditions.
Skin Care:
Moisturize: Cold air can be harsh on the skin, so moisturize regularly.
Sunscreen: Don’t skip sunscreen even in winter to protect against UV rays.
Home Environment:
Heating: Keep your home warm but not too dry; consider using a humidifier to prevent dry air.
Cleanliness: Regularly clean and disinfect your home to prevent the spread of germs.
Health Check-ups:
Vaccinations: Ensure your flu shot and any other necessary vaccinations are up to date.
Regular Check-ups: Keep up with regular health check-ups to catch any issues early.
Mental Health:
Socializing: Keep in touch with friends and family to prevent feelings of isolation.
Self-Care: Prioritize self-care and take time for relaxation and stress management.
Taking care of your health in winter involves a combination of good nutrition, hygiene, exercise, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Remember, it’s about finding a balance that works for you and being mindful of your body’s needs during the colder months.
10, Nov 2023
Air India Now Provides Air-Rail Connections Across 5600 Train Stations In Germany On Deutsche Bahn
Bangalore, 10 November 2023: Air India, India’s leading global airline, has entered an intermodal interline agreement with WorldTicket, the exclusive distributor for Europe’s largest railway operator, Deutsche Bahn.
The collaboration enables Air India guests to travel on a single intermodal ticket beyond Frankfurt with convenient train connections to or from other cities and towns across Germany, including those without airports, on Deutsche Bahn. This lets travellers to connect to and from over 5600 train stations in Germany on the Deutsche Bahn network. Travellers can also take train connections on Deutsche Bahn to and from Amsterdam, Brussels, and Zurich via Air India’s Frankfurt gateway. WorldTicket is an IATA travel partner with its own AOC-holding airline, FlexFlight, bearing designator code W2, thus making intermodal journeys on a single ticket possible.
The partnership with WorldTicket for Deutsche Bahn also allows Air India guests to enjoy the benefit of the same baggage allowance on the rail routes as offered by Air India on its own flights.
Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial & Transformation Officer, Air India, said, “While we continue to expand our own route network globally, such partnerships help us to provide an extended network to our guests, and make journeys to their final destinations more convenient. We observe substantial passenger traffic on our Frankfurt flights that further connects to and from other German cities and towns, and this partnership addresses the needs of an increasing number of such guests. We are delighted to be working with WorldTicket and Deutsche Bahn in this effort.”
Air India recently entered another similar intermodal partnership to provide guests easy access to an extensive network of rail and bus operators in the UK, Italy, Austria, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
Currently, intermodal tickets with Air India are available for booking through travel agents globally. The airline also plans to extend the facility to its own sales channels progressively.
10, Nov 2023
People in India are exposed to nearly 12 fake messages daily, reveals McAfee’s Scam Message Study
INDIA, November 10, 2023– McAfee Corp., a global leader in online protection, today released its first-ever Global Scam Message Study. The study surveyed more than 7,000 adults in seven countries, including India, to understand how scam messages, and the increased scam sophistication brought about by artificial intelligence (AI), have impacted the lives of consumers worldwide.
AI is a scammer’s favorite tool, helping cybercriminals increase the scale and sophistication of scam messages. The speed of phishing and text message scams is on the rise – a new phishing site is created every 11 seconds. This spotlights the increasing need for solutions that turn the tables on AI scammers; there has never been a more critical time for the country’s 900 million internet users to protect themselves online.
This study reveals that Indians receive nearly 12 fake messages or scams each day via email, text or social media daily. An average Indian consumer spends 1.8 hours a week reviewing, verifying or deciding whether a message sent through text, email, or social media is real or fake. 82% of Indians have clicked on or fallen for fake messages. 49% of Indians said that scam messages no longer have typos or errors, making them more believable and harder to identify. Amongst the most common forms of sophisticated trickery, most Indian consumers fall for fake job notifications or offers (64%) and bank alert messages (52%).
“It’s truly a sign of the times that most Indian consumers would rather subject themselves to the pain and distress of a root canal than be subjected to scam texts and messages throughout the year,” said Roma Majumder, SVP of Product at McAfee. “And it’s not just the speed and volume, but the sophistication. Thanks to AI it can be incredibly difficult to know if that delivery text message or bank alert notification is real or not. So much so that 73% of Indians believe they have a better shot at solving the Rubik’s cube than identifying a scam message.”
“This onslaught of scam messages is a drain on people’s time, energy, and finances. And it’s why we all need AI to beat AI. Unfortunately, seeing is no longer believing and we need to be equipped with advanced AI technology that can stop and block scam messages in real time. I’m proud that McAfee offers solutions to protect people’s privacy, identity, and personal information and helps make the online world more enjoyable for everyone,” said Majumder.
The 2023 McAfee Scam Message Study
McAfee’s research revealed four key insights about online scams. It highlights the increased stress people are facing due to the AI-driven increase in the number and sophistication of scam messages. Hence, the a need for a robust AI-driven defense solution to beat AI scams. The survey results are detailed below.
Today’s scam messages are cleverly camouflaged
60% of Indian respondents think it has become harder to identify scam messages, attributing this trend to hackers using AI to make their scams more believable. Further, 49% of people said that scam messages no longer have typos or errors, and are very believable as a result, and that scam messages are harder to identify because they are often very personal.
This sophisticated trickery takes five common forms:
“You’ve won a prize!” – 72%
Fake job notifications or offers – 64%
Bank alert message– 52%
Information about a purchase the recipient didn’t make – 37%
Netflix (or similar) subscription updates – 35%
Fake missed delivery, or delivery problem, notification – 29%
Amazon security alert, or notification messages regarding account updates – 27%
People are drowning in scam message sea
An average Indian spends 105 minutes each week reviewing, verifying, or deciding whether a message sent through text, email, social media is real or fake. This amounts to more than two full work weeks each year, spent on scam-spotting. About 90% of Indians surveyed indicate that they receive fake messages or scams via email and text on a daily basis, and 84% say the same about social media.
To click, or not to click, is a potentially complicated question
With the increased volume and more advanced appearance of scam messages, 82% of Indians have clicked on or fallen for fake messages. The most believed messages are:
“You’ve won a prize!” – 41%
Fake missed delivery, or delivery problem, notification – 23%
Information about a purchase the recipient didn’t make – 24%
Sign-in and location verification messages – 24%
An AI ally is needed as scam stakes rise and online trust sinks
As the number of AI-powered scams continues to rise, 37% of India survey respondents say their trust in digital communications has decreased. This trend is largely due to a lack of depth of digital defense knowledge. Most Indians say they don’t know if they are doing the right things to protect themselves. People manage this knowledge gap in different ways:
28% of people ignore an email when they receive an email or text that they think might be a scam
28% block the sender when they receive this type of message
31% report suspected scam messages
However, people do believe in new, AI-driven tools and resources to fight fraudsters: 88% of Indians say they’d trust a solution or feature that uses AI to detect online scams, and 59% believe we need AI to beat AI.
How to Protect Yourself from Scam Messages
Think before you click. Cybercriminals use phishing emails or fake sites to lure people into clicking links that could lead to malware. If you receive an email asking you to click on a link, even if it’s a great-sounding deal or indicates it’ll provide useful information, it’s best to avoid interacting with the message altogether. Always go directly to the source and interact with reputable companies.
Remember that if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Many scams are effective because the scammer creates a false sense of urgency or preys on a heightened emotional state. Pause before you rush to interact with any message that is threatening or urgent, especially if it is from an unknown or unlikely sender.
Use AI to beat AI. From blocking dangerous links that appear on text messages, social media, or web browsers, customers across all platforms can take advantage of the AI-driven technology behind McAfee Scam Protection to engage with text messages, read emails, and browse the web peacefully and securely.
10, Nov 2023
Infusing Holiday Cheer: Cake Mixing at Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur
Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur, a prominent destination in South Maharashtra, recently hosted a grand cake-mixing ceremony, a beloved tradition that marks the beginning of the festive Christmas season. The picturesque Skygreen at Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur served as the backdrop for this enchanting event, which took place on November 4, 2023.
Hon. Shri. Prithviraj Patil, Trustee of the D. Y. Patil Group, graced the occasion as the chief guest, emphasizing the hotel’s commitment to spreading joy and preserving the Christmas spirit in the community.
Mr. Amitabh Sharma, General Manager of Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur, expressed his excitement for the event, highlighting the significance of the Christmas cake in their festive celebrations. He stated, “Christmas is right around the corner, and the traditional Christmas cake is an essential part of our festivities. To mark this special occasion, we were thrilled to host the cake-mixing event, uniting our esteemed guests, dedicated team, and people from diverse backgrounds in embracing the spirit of the season.”
The cake-mixing ceremony saw a delightful blend of cultures as participants gathered to marinate an assortment of dry fruits, including almonds, cashews, and pistachios. These ingredients were lovingly soaked in an array of spirits to infuse the cakes with rich flavors and warm holiday cheer. Guests had the opportunity to witness the aromatic transformation of these ingredients, as they became an integral part of the cherished Christmas cake recipe at Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur.
This age-old English tradition, which harks back to the origins of the Christmas cake as plum porridge, gave rise to the delectable confections characterized by an assortment of ingredients. Moist Zante currants, sultanas (golden raisins), and raisins, all soaked in spirits such as brandy, rum, whisky, wine, and sherry, are the heart of these cakes. They are lovingly adorned with layers of marzipan and icing, often featuring decorative elements like plaid ribbon bands and Christmas-themed models, including snowmen and fir trees.
Guests enjoyed a delightful evening filled with soothing music and delectable high tea snacks, creating the perfect ambiance for the occasion. The event spread the warmth and joy of the festive season, bringing together the community in a celebration of shared traditions and merriment.
Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur is renowned for its luxurious accommodations and world-class amenities, making it a landmark destination in South Maharashtra. The hotel’s opulent rooms, exquisite fine-dining restaurants, and grand banquet facilities make it the preferred choice for discerning guests seeking the ultimate in hospitality.
