Hollywood
Kaspersky warns of Avatar 3 cyber scams targeting global fans
MUMBAI: The release of Avatar 3 has not only stirred excitement at the box office but also sparked a surge in online scams, according to cybersecurity firm Kaspersky. As fans flock to watch the latest chapter of the blockbuster franchise, cybercriminals are cashing in on the hype with fraudulent websites promising online access to the film.
Kaspersky reports that these scam sites are targeting users globally, often localising pages in multiple languages. However, the translations are frequently clumsy, riddled with grammatical errors, and can serve as a red flag for suspicious activity. Once users click to watch the movie, they are confronted with fake media players and urged to “register” to unlock full access, handing over personal details such as email addresses and phone numbers.
In later stages, attackers may request payment details under the guise of a “free trial,” putting users at risk of identity theft and financial loss. The scam is particularly dangerous for those who reuse passwords across different accounts.
“Cybercriminals consistently exploit blockbuster releases to grab attention and maximise their schemes,” said Kaspersky senior web content analyst Olga Altukhova. “We strongly advise using official platforms and reliable security tools, and to be cautious whenever personal or payment information is requested online.”
Kaspersky recommends verifying site authenticity, sticking to reputable streaming services, enabling multi-factor authentication on financial and entertainment accounts, and using trusted security solutions to block phishing attempts. In independent tests, Kaspersky Premium achieved a 93% detection rate with zero false positives, earning an “Approved” certificate from AV-Comparatives for anti-phishing protection.
The lesson is clear: the only thing fans should risk with Avatar 3 is their popcorn.
Hollywood
Paramount seeks FCC nod for foreign-backed $110 billion WBD deal
Gulf funds back merger as foreign stake nears 50 per cent, control stays with Ellison
NEW YORK: Paramount Global has approached the Federal Communications Commission seeking approval for foreign investments tied to its proposed $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, marking another key step in one of the biggest media deals in recent years.
According to regulatory filings made public this week, the investment backing the deal includes major Gulf sovereign funds such as the Public Investment Fund, the Qatar Investment Authority and L’imad Holding Company. Together, foreign investors are expected to hold just under 50 per cent of Paramount’s equity once the transaction is complete.
Despite the sizeable international backing, Paramount has made it clear that voting control will remain with the family of chief executive David Ellison, ensuring the company stays firmly under US control as required by broadcasting rules.
A company spokesperson described the FCC filing as routine for transactions involving foreign capital and stressed that it does not impact the closing of the deal. Under US law, any significant foreign ownership in broadcast licence holders must undergo regulatory review.
The merger itself has already cleared a major hurdle, with Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders approving the deal on 23 April. The transaction values the company at $31 per share, a 147 per cent premium to its earlier trading price, reflecting strong strategic intent behind the tie-up.
If completed, the combined entity will bring together a vast portfolio including Warner Bros. film studios, HBO Max, and networks such as CNN, TNT and Discovery Channel. The deal is currently expected to close in the third quarter of 2026.
However, scrutiny is intensifying. The US Department of Justice has issued subpoenas seeking details on the merger’s potential impact on cinema competition, streaming services and content licensing. Reviews are also anticipated in international markets, including the United Kingdom.
There is also a financial safety net built into the agreement. If regulators ultimately block the deal, Paramount would face a $7 billion break-up fee. Additionally, the company has taken on $2.8 billion in obligations previously owed by Warner Bros. Discovery to Netflix following an earlier terminated arrangement.
Paramount maintains that easing foreign ownership barriers will unlock fresh capital and strengthen its ability to compete in a rapidly evolving media landscape. For now, the spotlight remains on regulators, whose decision will determine whether this global media consolidation moves from script to screen.
