As Hurricane Melissa, a formidable Category 5 storm, approached Jamaica, social media platforms were inundated with AI-generated videos, diverting attention from essential safety information. AFP identified numerous fabricated clips, many bearing the watermark of OpenAI’s text-to-video model, Sora. These videos depicted exaggerated scenarios, from severe flooding and sharks in the water to human suffering and locals downplaying the storm’s threat, often reinforced by stereotypical Jamaican accents. Jamaican Information Minister Senator Dana Morris Dixon emphasized the importance of relying on official channels for accurate information, as fake content could lead to underestimating the storm’s severity. Experts, including University of Oklahoma meteorology professor Amy McGovern, warned that such misinformation could result in catastrophic consequences, including loss of life and property. The clips primarily spread on TikTok, with some lacking the required AI disclosure labels. TikTok removed over two dozen videos and related accounts after AFP flagged them, though similar content circulated on Facebook and Instagram. Cybersecurity expert Hany Farid highlighted how advanced text-to-video models have accelerated the spread of convincing fakes, contributing to public misinformation. Despite watermarks, many viewers appeared unaware the content was AI-generated, with some even engaging with the fabricated scenarios. Farid noted the paradox of the information age, where increased information leads to a less informed public.
分类： technology
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Digital menus set to transform hospitality, advertising landscape
A groundbreaking digital platform named ‘My Restaurant Menu’ is set to revolutionize the operational dynamics of restaurants and local businesses in Saint Lucia. Spearheaded by Abraham Sutherland, Founder of Quasland Media Group Ltd., this innovative solution addresses persistent challenges in menu management, customer engagement, and advertising. Sutherland shared with St. Lucia Times that the concept emerged from observing the difficulties businesses face in updating menus, controlling costs, and maintaining online visibility. Unlike traditional printed menus, which are expensive to reprint and lack flexibility, this digital system enables businesses to effortlessly update prices, incorporate photos, and directly engage with customers. Sutherland emphasized that the platform is more than a menu; it’s a comprehensive digital interface designed to save costs, enhance convenience, and amplify visibility. The platform’s unique dual functionality serves as both a restaurant management tool and a marketing hub. Customers can browse menus via a mobile-friendly interface, while businesses can integrate advertisements seamlessly within the menu layout. Sutherland highlighted that this feature transforms menu space into valuable digital real estate for advertisers, including beverage companies, event organizers, and local attractions. These ads are strategically placed to enrich the browsing experience rather than disrupt it. Sutherland noted that while digital menus exist elsewhere, this platform stands out due to its combination of functionality and opportunity, creating a unified ecosystem for restaurants, advertisers, and customers. He anticipates rapid adoption in Saint Lucia, citing the island’s increasing digital literacy and the platform’s proven success in other Caribbean regions. A significant advantage of the platform is its monetization potential, allowing restaurants to generate additional revenue through hosted ads. Sutherland explained that advertisers pay for featured placements, providing restaurants with a supplementary income stream. The platform is designed for practicality, requiring only an internet connection and a smartphone, tablet, or computer for menu management. Sutherland revealed ongoing efforts to collaborate with local tech and media firms to facilitate onboarding and create employment opportunities. Looking ahead, Sutherland envisions the platform as the cornerstone of a broader digital ecosystem, aiming to establish a comprehensive hospitality engagement network where restaurants, advertisers, and customers interact seamlessly. He believes this initiative will significantly enhance business sustainability, online visibility, and customer experience across Saint Lucia.
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Where AI meets music: Saint Lucian creatives weigh promise, risks, law
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the music industry, from composition to marketing, but in Saint Lucia, the response is a mix of enthusiasm and caution. Local voices, including a tech consultant, a hitmaker, and a reggae artist, share their perspectives on this transformative technology. While AI offers efficiency and cost savings, it also raises complex questions about ownership, creativity, and cultural authenticity. Critics fear AI-generated music and cloned voices could dilute artistry and undermine copyright, while proponents view it as the next evolutionary step in music. Jim Joseph, a tech consultant, likens the current skepticism to past technological shifts, such as the transition from live bands to synthesizers. He predicts gradual acceptance but warns of unresolved legal issues, particularly around copyright and fair use. Award-winning musician Sherwinn Dupes Brice describes the duality of excitement and fear, emphasizing the need for artists to adapt and elevate their creativity. He stresses the importance of marketing and calls for updated copyright laws to address AI cloning. Reggae artist Werner Semi Francis sees AI as a supplementary tool, advocating for a hybrid approach that blends AI with human creativity. He believes success still hinges on song quality and business acumen. Joseph highlights the lag in copyright laws, noting that fully AI-generated content may not qualify for protection. He advises creators to scrutinize platform terms to avoid unintended reuse of their work. Brice and Francis both emphasize the need for legal clarity and cultural preservation, urging artists to maintain authenticity while leveraging AI. As regional experiments, like Trinidad and Tobago’s AI soca artist JOU VAY, emerge, questions about voice ownership and royalty distribution grow more pressing. The consensus among Saint Lucian artists is clear: embrace AI’s efficiency, navigate legal complexities, and preserve the human essence of music.
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Grenada Tourism Authority launches WhatsApp broadcast channel
The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) has unveiled its latest digital initiative with the introduction of a WhatsApp Broadcast Channel on October 23. This innovative platform is designed to provide real-time updates, crucial announcements, and tourism-related information directly to subscribers’ mobile devices. The move underscores the GTA’s dedication to leveraging technology for enhanced accessibility, transparency, and engagement with its audience.
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GOB Warns of Fake AI Video Promising Quick Returns
The Government of Belize (GOB) has issued a public warning about a fraudulent AI-generated video circulating on social media. The video, presented in Spanish, features manipulated images of prominent Belizean figures and falsely promises viewers quick financial returns in exchange for investments. Authorities emphasize that such scams, leveraging advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology, are becoming alarmingly prevalent. These so-called ‘deepfake’ videos can convincingly alter images, audio, and video to fabricate statements or actions that never occurred. The GOB strongly advises citizens to avoid sharing personal information or sending money in response to such deceptive content. To help the public identify fake AI videos, experts recommend verifying the source, checking for inconsistencies in facial movements or audio, reverse-searching key frames, and cross-referencing claims with credible sources. Additionally, skepticism toward ‘get rich quick’ messages is crucial, as legitimate investment opportunities are rarely promoted through viral social media posts. As AI technology becomes more accessible, experts predict a rise in deepfake scams targeting personal finances, political influence, and misinformation campaigns. The public is urged to remain vigilant, report suspicious content, and verify all online claims before taking action.
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Digicel Business and Symptai Offer Complimentary Dark Web Scans for Cybersecurity Month
In a significant move to bolster cybersecurity across the Caribbean, Digicel Business and Symptai have announced a complimentary dark web scan initiative in honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This program, available until November 21, 2025, aims to help regional businesses identify potential data breaches and mitigate risks before they escalate. The Caribbean, often perceived as vulnerable to cyber threats due to limited local expertise and insufficient proactive measures, stands to benefit greatly from this initiative.
Cybercrime continues to surge globally, with data breaches costing an average of US$4.88 million annually. Common vulnerabilities include phishing attacks, misconfigured devices, and compromised credentials. By detecting exposed data early, businesses can safeguard customer trust, secure critical systems, and minimize the impact of cyber threats.
Marlon Cooper, CEO of Symptai, emphasized the inseparable link between cybersecurity and business strategy. ‘No organization can achieve sustained growth without protecting its data,’ he stated. ‘Prioritizing security is essential for maintaining trust, enhancing competitiveness, and securing the region’s economic future.’
Liam Donnelly, Chief Business Officer at Digicel, highlighted the company’s commitment to empowering organizations. ‘With our team of experts and global partnerships, we bring world-class cybersecurity and data protection services to the Caribbean,’ he said.
The collaboration between Digicel Business and Symptai provides businesses with access to a comprehensive suite of ICT, cybersecurity, and data protection services. These include 24/7/365 Security Operations Center (SOC) monitoring, endpoint protection, managed firewalls, consultancy, and penetration testing. This unified approach ensures that organizations of all sizes can effectively safeguard their data, systems, and operations.
Businesses are encouraged to take advantage of the free dark web scan to identify and address potential risks promptly. For more information or to request a scan, visit /global/en/cybersecurity-month-2025.
About Digicel:
Digicel is a leading digital connectivity provider, operating in 25 markets across the Caribbean, Central, and South America. With a focus on economic participation and digital inclusion, Digicel serves nine million customers through mobile, home, and business solutions.About Symptai:
Symptai, headquartered in Jamaica, is a premier IT consulting firm with over 27 years of experience. Specializing in cybersecurity, data privacy, and digital transformation, Symptai empowers organizations to build resilience, comply with regulations, and unlock long-term value through technology. -
NBB Warns of Fake Facebook Pages Targeting Customers
The National Bank of Belize (NBBL) has issued a stern warning to its customers following the discovery of counterfeit Facebook pages impersonating the bank. In an official statement released on Tuesday, NBBL clarified that these pages are entirely unauthorized and bear no affiliation with the institution. The bank has promptly reported the matter to the relevant authorities and is actively pursuing the removal of these fraudulent accounts. Customers are strongly advised against sharing any personal or financial information with these pages and to meticulously verify the authenticity of any suspicious messages. NBBL emphasized that all official communications are exclusively disseminated through its verified platforms. Individuals who believe they may have interacted with a fake account are urged to contact the bank immediately via email at services@nbbl.bz or by calling 822-0957 / 822-0950.
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How AI is transforming dentistry
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer confined to Silicon Valley or futuristic concepts like self-driving cars. In Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Shenilee Hazell, founder of Smile Inn Dental, is pioneering the use of AI in dentistry, transforming how patients receive dental care. Her clinic has become the first in the Caribbean to adopt Dental Monitoring, an AI-powered system that allows patients to monitor their oral health from home, eliminating the need for frequent in-person visits.
Patients are provided with a ScanBox device that connects to their smartphones. Once a week, they record a short video of their teeth, which the AI analyzes for over 130 factors, including aligner fit and gum health. Within hours, patients receive personalized feedback, such as whether to proceed to the next aligner or wait a few more days. This innovative approach offers continuous, adaptive care without the hassle of leaving home.
Dr. Hazell emphasizes that time is a significant barrier to oral health. By integrating AI into patients’ lifestyles, Smile Inn Dental delivers precision care while saving valuable time. Studies show that AI-assisted monitoring can reduce diagnostic time by nearly half and detect issues earlier than traditional methods, leading to faster treatments, fewer complications, and better outcomes.
Globally, AI is reshaping dentistry, with machine learning systems reading X-rays, mapping facial structures, and even guiding surgical procedures. Companies like Pearl AI, VideaHealth, and Align Technology have developed algorithms trained on millions of images, enabling faster detection of decay, bone loss, and gum disease. At Smile Inn, Dr. Hazell uses Invisalign’s ClinCheck AI and Smile Architect software to design personalized smiles based on each patient’s facial symmetry.
Beyond treatment, Smile Inn employs near-infrared light to identify weak enamel before cavities form, aligning with global trends in predictive dentistry. This proactive approach allows patients to focus on preventive care rather than waiting for problems to arise.
Despite its benefits, AI in dentistry can evoke concerns about dehumanization and algorithmic bias. Dr. Hazell addresses these issues by ensuring AI remains a supportive tool, not a replacement for clinicians. She also advocates for regional data partnerships to ensure AI systems reflect the Caribbean’s diversity.
AI-enabled tele-dentistry has the potential to revolutionize healthcare in the Caribbean, where geography often limits access. Patients in remote areas, such as Tobago, can now receive weekly monitoring from specialists in Port of Spain without incurring travel costs. This innovation also enhances the region’s medical tourism appeal, offering world-class precision care locally.
Dr. Hazell’s leadership extends beyond technology. She is training her all-female team, piloting AI-driven X-ray diagnostics, and even 3D-printing aligners in-house. Her efforts inspire young Caribbean professionals, particularly women, to merge science, technology, and creativity in healthcare.
AI has entered the dental chair, offering precision, transparency, and time savings for both practitioners and patients. Dr. Hazell and Smile Inn Dental exemplify how innovation thrives in the Caribbean, proving that cutting-edge technology isn’t limited to overseas markets.
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Top Barbadian firms back IABC Barbados AI masterclass
Barbados is taking a significant step toward integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into the communication sector with an upcoming masterclass organized by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Barbados Chapter. Titled ‘AI for Communication Excellence,’ the event, scheduled for November 11, has garnered strong support from key corporate and media institutions, including The Nation Publishing Co Limited as the title sponsor, Consumers’ Guarantee Insurance (CGI) Company Ltd and Barbados TODAY Inc. as silver sponsors, and General Accident Insurance Company as a bronze sponsor. This collaboration highlights a collective commitment to fostering technological fluency while upholding human-centered ethics in communication. Dr. Pamala Proverbs, President of IABC Barbados, emphasized the importance of embracing AI as a transformative tool rather than fearing it. She stated that the masterclass aims to equip professionals with the skills to apply AI intelligently and ethically, ensuring they remain at the forefront of their fields. The event will feature insights from Jennifer Jones-Mitchell, a global AI strategist and CEO of Human Driven AI, and Lisa Greaves, Barbados’ data protection commissioner, who will provide both strategic and regulatory perspectives. Designed for professionals in public relations, corporate communications, media, marketing, crisis management, and brand storytelling, the masterclass promises to deliver practical, future-ready skills. Registration for this transformative experience is available at www.iabcbarbadosbb.com.
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Technology : Official Launch of Haiti Tech Connect Awards
On October 21, 2025, the Haiti Tech Connect Podcast unveiled the inaugural Haiti Tech Connect Awards, a groundbreaking initiative designed to honor the contributions of individuals and groups within Haiti and its diaspora. These awards aim to celebrate those who leverage technology, education, social innovation, and entrepreneurship to build a more inclusive, sustainable, and competitive digital ecosystem. The awards will recognize a diverse array of talents, including individuals, institutions, startups, women, and young innovators, across six key categories: Innovation & Technology, Education & Automation, Impact & Inclusion, Leadership & Governance, Creativity & Media Innovation, and Diaspora Tech Excellence. A significant portion of the selection process will involve public voting, which will account for 70% of the total score in categories such as Young Innovator of the Year, Startup of the Year, Women & Tech Leadership, and Mayors’ Online Presence. The nomination period opened on October 21, 2025, and will close on November 30, 2025, with public voting scheduled from December 1 to December 10, 2025. The winners will be announced on December 12, 2025. For more information, interested parties can visit the official website or contact the organizers via email at hey@profitconsultgroup.com.