Public Cyber Safety Advisory During Conflict Times

Stay Vigilant During the Indo-Pak Tensions – A Message from The Ujudebug Bulletin – Assam

In the wake of rising tensions between India and Pakistan, digital misinformation and cyberattacks are increasing across platforms. Malicious actors are exploiting public fear to spread fake news, steal data, and disrupt communication. To protect yourself, your devices, and your community, please make sure that you follow this important cybersecurity advisory.

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WhatsApp & Social Media – Use with Caution

What NOT to Do:

• Never open unknown video or image files, even if forwarded by trusted contacts.

• Do not forward such media or messages to others or groups—it contributes to the spread of harmful content.

• Avoid clicking on forwarded links, especially those claiming to show breaking news, conflict updates, or exclusive footage.

• Do not install APK files received through messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram. Use only the Google Play Store or the App Store.

  • Control Who Can See Your Info:

                       Go to Settings > Privacy, then set:

• • Last Seen & Online → Nobody or My Contacts

  • Profile Photo → My Contacts or Nobody

  • About → My Contacts

  • Status → My Contacts or Only Share With…

  • Live Location → Never share with unknown people
  • Privacy→Go ahead and click on ‘Advanced,’ take a moment to learn, and then feel free to turn it off when you’re ready! (*Block unknown account messages/*Protect IP address in calls/*Disable link previews)

Suspicious Groups?

If you are part of a group that:

• Shares inflammatory, violent, or unverified content,
  Exit, Report, and Delete the group immediately.

Enable Fingerprint or Face ID Lock for WhatsApp

Why: Physical device security is as important as digital privacy. This protects your WhatsApp from unauthorized access, even if your phone is stolen.

Steps:

• Go to Settings > Privacy > Fingerprint Lock (Android) or Screen Lock (iOS).

• Set the lock to ‘Immediately’ for maximum protection.

Manage Linked Devices & Remote Logout

Why: WhatsApp allows you to access the same account on multiple devices. If someone gains access to one of your devices, they can see your chats.

Steps:

• Go to Settings > Linked Devices

• Review all devices connected to your WhatsApp and log out of any unfamiliar ones.

Tip: Always log out of WhatsApp Web or Desktop when not in use, especially on public or shared computers.

Keep Your Device and WhatsApp Updated

Why: Regular updates patch vulnerabilities in your app and operating system. This is essential for ensuring the latest security measures are applied.

Steps:

• Always update WhatsApp through the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

• Enable automatic updates for your device OS to get the latest security patches.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Why: A strong password for your phone, email, and WhatsApp account reduces the risk of unauthorized access, especially if your phone or account is compromised.

Steps:

• Use a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords.

• Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts, and make your passwords at least 12 characters long.

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Enhance WhatsApp Security Now

Quick Steps to Boost Protection:

1. Disable Media Auto Download:

   • Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Storage and Data

   • Turn off auto-download for Photos, Audio, Videos, and Documents

2. Enable 2-Step Verification:

   • Go to Settings > Account > Two-step verification

   • Set up a 6-digit PIN to prevent unauthorized access

3. Never share OTPs (One-Time Passwords) with anyone, even if they pretend to be a friend or authority.

4. Report malicious content directly within WhatsApp

   • Or at: www.cybercrime.gov.in

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Email Users – Beware of Phishing

Red Flags to Watch:

• Emails from unknown senders with urgent subjects like “Breaking Indo-Pak Conflict News”

• Attachments or links in unsolicited emails

• Email addresses that mimic legitimate organizations (e.g., support@google.com)

Essential Email Security Practices:

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on your email account

• Use up-to-date antivirus software

• Turn on spam filters in your email client

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General Cyber Hygiene – Everyday Digital Safety Tips

1. Trust Only Verified Sources

   • Use official government sites and trusted news media for Indo-Pak updates

   • Follow fact-checkers to verify viral claims

2. Don’t Fall for “Exclusive Footage” or “Leaked News”

   • These are often used as bait for malware and phishing

3. Avoid Clicking on Unverified Social Media Links

4. Back Up Your Data Regularly

   • Use cloud storage or external drives

5. Update Your Antivirus & Mobile Security Software

   • Protect yourself against evolving threats

6. Don’t Spread Misinformation

   • Think before you share—especially during times of geopolitical tension

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Reporting Cybercrime or Suspicious Activity

If you or someone you know has been a victim of a cyberattack, scam, or data breach:

• Call the National Cybercrime Helpline: 1930

• File a complaint online at: www.cybercrime.gov.in

If you’d like to learn more about WhatsApp’s privacy policy, just let me know!

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Digital Privacy & Security – Q&A Guide

1. What is the first step to improve digital privacy across platforms?

Answer: Start by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on all major accounts—email, social media, messaging apps, and cloud storage. It adds an extra layer of protection beyond passwords.

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2. How can I protect my WhatsApp account from being hacked?

Answer: Enable Two-Step Verification in WhatsApp settings, avoid clicking on suspicious links, disable auto-download of media, and review linked devices regularly.

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3. What are the best privacy settings for Facebook and Instagram?

Answer: Set your profile to private, limit who can tag you, turn off location sharing, and review third-party app access. Also, enable login alerts and 2FA.

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4. Is it safe to open forwarded messages and videos on social media?

Answer: No. Never open unknown or unverified media, especially during conflict or high-alert situations. Such files may contain spyware or fake news.

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5. How can I avoid phishing emails and scams?

Answer: Don’t click on unknown links or download attachments from suspicious emails. Always verify the sender’s address and enable spam filters and antivirus protection.

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6. What messaging apps offer the best security?

Answer: Apps like Signal, Telegram (with Secret Chats), and WhatsApp (with end-to-end encryption) are good options. For maximum privacy, use apps with open-source encryption protocols.

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7. What is the safest way to store passwords?

Answer: Use a trusted password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or LastPass. Avoid storing passwords in browsers or unprotected files.

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8. Why is it important to update apps and devices regularly?

Answer: Updates patch known security vulnerabilities. Running outdated apps or OS versions makes your device more susceptible to malware and data breaches.

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9. Should I avoid public Wi-Fi networks?

Answer: Yes, especially for banking or sensitive communication. If you must use public Wi-Fi, always use a VPN

to encrypt your connection.

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10. What should I do if I become a victim of a cyber scam?

Answer: Immediately report the incident to cybercrime.gov.in (in India) or your country’s cybercrime helpline. Also, change all related passwords and inform your contacts.

Final Note from Ujudebug Bulletin – Assam

During conflict periods, digital misinformation is a weapon. Let’s not unknowingly aid it. Your digital discipline helps prevent panic, protects personal data, and supports national cybersecurity efforts.

Stay informed. Stay safe. Share responsibly.
– The Ujudebug Bulletin – Assam