iWorld
Warner Bros Discovery dominates Digital Reinvent Innovation Awards with big wins
Mumbai: In a significant achievement, Warner Bros Discovery proudly reveals multiple wins at the esteemed Digital Reinvent Awards 2023. Discovery original series “The Journey Of India,” clinching the distinguished Gold Title for Limited or Anthology series in the ‘Best In Content Creation’ category. Sharing the spotlight in this category, “Money Mafia Season 3” takes home the silver award.
Amplifying its position as the leader of the factual entertainment space, Warner Bros Discovery also secured the silver title for “The Journey of India” in the category of ‘Documentary or NonFiction Program or Series’. Spanning a wide range of subjects, the series features Amitabh Bachchan as the host and provides an in-depth look at the nation’s progress, influences, and accomplishments on its 75 years of independence. Notable figures who have contributed to the show’s captivating narrative include Anand Mahindra, Kajol, Karan Johar, S.S. Rajamouli, Amish Tripathi, Rana Daggubati, A. R. Rahman, chef Vikas Khanna, Nandan Nilekani and Naina Lal Kidwai.
Discovery, South Asia head of factual and lifestyle cluster Sai Abishek shared, “We are deeply honored by the success of our Indian originals at the Digital Reinvent Awards 2023. From ‘The Journey of India,’ a heartfelt tribute to India’s remarkable 75-year journey, to ‘Money Mafia,’ we strive to create compelling stories that connect with our audiences through our gripping non-fiction narratives. This recognition fuels our dedication to crafting engaging series that resonate with our viewers.”
Sai also mentioned, “We extend our gratitude to Black Iris for their collaboration on ‘The Journey of India’ and Vice Media for their contribution to ‘Money Mafia.’ Their invaluable partnership enhances the celebration of this significant achievement.”
The Digital Reinvent Renovation Awards, held virtually on 1 December, 2023, recognised outstanding achievements in streaming entertainment. Acknowledging the exceptional contributions of individuals and organisations reshaping the digital entertainment landscape, the ceremony positions Warner Bros Discovery as the frontrunner in the infotainment space.
iWorld
Meta warns 200 users after fake Whatsapp spyware attack
Italy-targeted campaign used unofficial app to deploy surveillance spyware.
MUMBAI: It looked like a message, but it behaved like a mole. Meta has warned around 200 users most of them in Italy after uncovering a targeted spyware campaign that weaponised a fake version of WhatsApp to infiltrate devices. The attack, first reported by Agenzia Nazionale Stampa Associata, relied on classic social engineering with a modern twist: persuading users to download an unofficial WhatsApp clone embedded with surveillance software. The malicious application, believed to be developed by Italian firm SIO through its subsidiary ASIGINT, was designed to mimic the real app closely enough to bypass suspicion.
Meta’s security teams identified roughly 200 individuals who may have installed the compromised version, triggering immediate countermeasures. Affected users were logged out of their accounts and issued alerts warning of potential privacy breaches, with the company describing the incident as a “targeted social engineering attempt” aimed at gaining device-level access.
The malicious app was not distributed via official app stores but circulated through third-party channels, where it was presented as a legitimate WhatsApp alternative. Once installed, it reportedly allowed external operators to access sensitive data stored on the device turning a simple download into a potential surveillance gateway.
According to Techcrunch, Meta is now preparing legal action against the spyware developers to curb further misuse. The company, however, has not disclosed details about the specific individuals targeted or the extent of data compromised.
A Whatsapp spokesperson reiterated that user safety remains the top priority, particularly for those misled into installing the fake iOS application. Meanwhile, reports from La Repubblica suggest the spyware may be linked to “Spyrtacus”, a strain previously associated with Android-based attacks that could intercept calls, activate microphones and even access cameras.
The episode underscores a growing reality in the digital age, the threat is no longer just what you download, but where you download it from. As unofficial apps become increasingly convincing, the line between communication tool and covert surveillance is getting harder to spot and far easier to exploit.
