Have India's Defence Portals Fallen Victim to Cyber Attacks by a Pakistani Group?

Synopsis
In a dramatic escalation of cyber warfare, a Pakistani hacking group claims to have breached key Indian defence websites, raising serious concerns about national security. As sensitive data is reportedly compromised, officials scramble to respond to this unprecedented threat.
Key Takeaways
- Multiple Indian defence websites breached
- Sensitive data compromised including personnel information
- Pakistan Cyber Force claims responsibility
- Heightened security measures in response
- Need for improved cybersecurity protocols
New Delhi, May 5 (NationPress) Amidst the deteriorating relations between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack, a group of hackers based in Pakistan has claimed responsibility for breaching the websites of several Indian defence organizations, compromising critical data.
The hacker collective, known as the Pakistan Cyber Force, asserts that it has infiltrated the online platforms of prominent defence entities, including the Indian Military Engineering Services and the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, among others.
According to the group, they gained access to sensitive information concerning defence personnel, including their login credentials. The hackers also reportedly aimed to seize control of the website of Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited, a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Defence.
Furthermore, the Pakistan Cyber Force shared images showing a webpage from Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited, where the picture of an Indian tank was allegedly swapped with that of a Pakistani tank.
“Your armoured factory is now under our control, courtesy of the Pakistan Cyber Force,” they declared.
In response to this breach, it is reported that the Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited website has been taken offline for a comprehensive audit to evaluate any potential damage.
In another statement, the hackers claimed to have accessed data belonging to Military Engineer Services personnel, stating, “Hacked. Your security is merely an illusion. MES data is now ours.”
The group also claims to have obtained 10 GB of data concerning 1,600 users from the website of the Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses.
As a precautionary measure, security experts are actively analyzing the situation to develop a robust defense against such cyber threats. Meanwhile, security at Jammu-based prisons has been heightened following warnings of a potential attack aimed at facilitating the escape of notorious gangsters.