Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, cyber groups allegedly linked to Pakistan have launched a new wave of digital assaults on Indian defence institutions. Multiple defence websites, including those of the Military Engineer Services (MES) and the Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies and Analysis, have reportedly been compromised, with attackers claiming access to sensitive personnel data.
Pakistani hackers claim MES data theft, website defacement
A handle named Pakistan Cyber Force on social media platform X claimed responsibility for the attacks, boasting of acquiring over 10 GB of MES data from 1,600 users. One of the leaked images showed an altered webpage from Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited, with an Indian tank image replaced by a Pakistani one. Authorities have since taken the site offline for a full forensic audit.
India boosts cyber vigilance as defence portals remain targets
Cybersecurity teams have been mobilised to monitor further intrusion attempts and assess vulnerabilities across defence-related infrastructure. The Ministry of Defence is enhancing digital shields as previous incidents have targeted platforms like APS Srinagar, APS Ranikhet, AWHO, and the IAF Placement Organisation.
Diplomatic and military context sharpens threat landscape
This escalation follows the April 22 Pahalgam massacre, which left 26 civilians dead and has pushed India-Pakistan relations to a new low. India holds Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy The Resistance Front responsible and has since suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and visa services for Pakistani nationals. Top-level security meetings have suggested a strategic response may be imminent.
