Himachal Pradesh University's Website Hacked, Featuring Anti-India Messaging and Flag Burning Image
The official website of Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) was compromised on Monday in a significant cybersecurity breach. The hackers displayed the slogan "Pakistan Zindabad," along with derogatory remarks against India and an image depicting the burning of the Indian national flag. Following the intrusion, authorities promptly took the website offline as they responded to the incident.
This cyberattack occurs amidst a rise in such activities following India's recent military operation, known as Operation Sindoor. Officials suspect that the hacking might be part of a deliberate campaign focused on psychological manipulation and provocation.
HPU has engaged a Delhi-based IT firm to investigate the breach while the cybercrime unit of the Himachal Pradesh Police has launched a concurrent investigation. Mohit Chawla, Deputy Inspector General of the State CID (Cyber Crime), confirmed the incident and announced that two cyber commandos would be deployed to the university for an in-depth assessment. "Although the university has not filed a formal complaint, our teams are actively working to identify the source of the attack," he stated.
The state government has issued an advisory urging educational and public institutions to bolster their digital security measures and maintain vigilance. Cybersecurity specialists have observed that such attacks are likely to persist, as threat actors take advantage of vulnerabilities in the post-conflict environment for disruptive propaganda.
The recent hacking incident highlights the urgent necessity to enhance India's cybersecurity framework, particularly within academic and administrative sectors, which are increasingly being targeted for their symbolic significance.
