A group of hackers identifying themselves as the Pakistan Cyber Force has claimed responsibility for hacking into several Indian defence-related websites, heightening cyber tensions between the two nations. The group made this assertion through a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating that they infiltrated Indian defence institutions and extracted classified and sensitive data.
Among the alleged targets are the Military Engineering Services (MES) and the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA). The hackers claim to have accessed login credentials and personal data linked to officials from Indian defence forces. These claims come in the wake of increasing cross-border tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, indicating that this may be a retaliatory cyber offensive.
Though the hackers boast of accessing crucial military intelligence, Indian authorities have not officially confirmed any data breach or cyber intrusion as of now. However, concerned cybersecurity agencies in India have reportedly launched an urgent investigation into the claims to verify the extent of the alleged attack.
Adding to the concern, reports suggest that the hackers also attempted to deface the official website of Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), a public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Defence. While it’s unclear whether this defacement was successful, the attempt itself highlights vulnerabilities in defence cyber infrastructure.
Authorities are now on high alert, and cybersecurity experts are assessing the situation to prevent any further compromise. This alleged breach has raised serious concerns about the cyber preparedness of critical defence infrastructure in India amid ongoing regional instability.
