Cyber storm brews as India-Pak tensions spill online

 

 

Amidst growing tensions at Indo-Pak borders, the Maharashtra State Cyber Department has confirmed that several critical infrastructure systems and Government websites have been the target of sustained cyber attacks. The attacks, characterised by Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attempts and digital defacement campaigns which aim to disrupt essential public services and erode trust in official Government platforms. The press release, issued by the Office of the Additional Director General of Police, Maharashtra State Cyber Department, underlined the increasing scale and sophistication of these digital assaults. The department has intensified its surveillance of online platforms to identify and counter unlawful cyber activities. The cyber escalation is believed to be a retaliatory response to Operation Sindoor. According to the Cyber Department, hostile cyber entities based across the border have ramped up a new wave of cyber warfare since the commencement of the operation.

 

“These acts are not isolated breaches, but a deliberate and unconventional form of aggression aimed at sabotaging internal digital security,” the department stated. “The principal objective appears to be the disruption of key administrative functions and the spread of misinformation to destabilize public trust.” The threat is not confined to government networks alone. In a concerning development, malicious actors have begun distributing malware-laced files disguised as official Government documents. These files, often sent via email or messaging platforms, are designed to compromise personal devices once opened, enabling unauthorised access, data theft, and broader network infiltration. “The deceptive labelling of these files makes them particularly dangerous, as many unsuspecting users may mistake them for legitimate communications,” the release warned. In response, the Maharashtra Cyber Department has issued advisories to all affected departments and institutions to ensure quick implementation of countermeasures. Public awareness campaigns are being intensified to educate citizens about safe digital practices.