How Celebrities Like Orry and Diljit Dosanjh Could Be Endangering Your Online Security
Celebrities and Cyber Threats: How Your Online Safety Is at Risk
A new McAfee report warns that popular celebrities like Orry (Orhan Awatramani) and Diljit Dosanjh could be putting your online security in danger. The cybersecurity company, renowned for its antivirus software, has released the “Celebrity Hacker Hot List 2024,” an annual study identifying Indian celebrity names most frequently exploited by cybercriminals.
How Cyber criminals Exploit Celebrity Popularity
According to McAfee’s threat intelligence researchers, the more viral a celebrity becomes, the more likely cybercriminals are to use their name to create fraudulent websites and online scams. These malicious sites often trick unsuspecting users into downloading malware, leading to data breaches, financial fraud, and identity theft.
Orry Tops the Celebrity Hacker Hot List 2024
This year’s McAfee Celebrity Hacker Hot List is led by Orhan Awatramani (Orry), whose rapid rise in fame and association with high-profile celebrities has made him a prime target for cyber scams.
Following him is Diljit Dosanjh, whose upcoming ‘Dil-Luminati’ concert tour has been plagued by ticketing scams. Cybercriminals are leveraging fan excitement to sell fake tickets and steal personal data.
AI and Deep fakes: A New Cybercrime Threat
The growing use of AI and deep fake technology has further worsened the situation. Several high-profile Indian celebrities have been targeted:
- Alia Bhatt – Victim of deepfake content
- Ranveer Singh & Aamir Khan – Falsely depicted endorsing political parties
- Shahrukh Khan & Virat Kohli – Featured in AI-generated content promoting illegal betting apps
These manipulations not only mislead the public but also tarnish the reputations of the celebrities involved.
India’s McAfee Hacker Celebrity Hot List 2024
The top ten Indian celebrities most exploited by cybercriminals include:
- Orry (Orhan Awatramani)
- Diljit Dosanjh
- Alia Bhatt
- Ranveer Singh
- Virat Kohli
- Sachin Tendulkar
- Shahrukh Khan
- Deepika Padukone
- Aamir Khan
- Mahendra Singh Dhoni
How Cybercriminals Target Fans
Scammers exploit fan curiosity using malicious links, phishing emails, and AI-generated videos mimicking celebrities’ voices and appearances. These fraudulent tactics not only deceive fans but also erode consumer trust and damage celebrity reputations.
Expert Advice on Avoiding Cyber Threats
Vonny Gamot, McAfee’s Head of EMEA, warns that many individuals fall for scams by clicking on malicious links featuring celebrity images. She states, “AI-generated deepfakes use existing content to manipulate faces, voices, and actions. While some are harmless fun, others spread misinformation, influence elections, and scam consumers.”
Stay Safe Online
To protect yourself from celebrity-based cyber scams, follow these best practices:
- Avoid clicking on unknown links promising free tickets or exclusive celebrity content.
- Verify URLs before entering personal information.
- Use trusted sources for news and event tickets.
- Stay updated with the latest cybersecurity threats.
By staying vigilant, you can enjoy celebrity content without falling prey to cybercriminals.