India thwarts fresh wave of cyberattacks by Pakistan hackers to breach Army websites

A Pakistan-sponsored fresh wave of cyber offensives was successfully thwarted by India's cyber security agencies on Thursday. Hackers targeted digital platforms linked to children, veterans, and welfare services. 

 

Hacker groups 'Cyber Group HOAX1337' and 'National Cyber Crew' made attempts to attack the websites of Army Public School Nagrota and Sunjun with messages mocking the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, reported ANI. 

 

In a similar incident, an ex-servicemen's healthcare services were defaced. 

 

According to authorities, there have been repeated attempts by Pakistan hackers to attack websites linking to innocent people in India. 

 

Experts view the recent cyber attacks as Pakistan's intent to escalate the tensions in cyberspace. Since the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, the India-Pakistan relationship has hit a new low. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the Army to decide the time and course of action in retaliation to the attack. 

 

Hackers also attempted to breach the websites of the Army Institute of Hotel Management and Indian Air Force Veterans' services. 

 

On April 29, 'IOK Hacker'- Internet of Khilafah, a hacker group tried to deface multiple Indian welfare and educational platforms after failing to access critical national networks. 

 

Four related incidents were confirmed by the intelligence agencies. Websites of Army Public School, Srinagar, and APS Raniket were targeted and also there was an attempted breach of the Army Welfare Housing Organisation database as well. Indian Air Force Placement Organisation portal also came under threat.

 

All four sites were promptly isolated and restorative action was undertaken. 

 

Meanwhile, unprovoked ceasefire violations continued along and beyond the border. The army responded effectively to Pakistan's firing in areas including Baramulla, Kupwara and Poonch districts. 

Defence