As the Indian armed forces commenced precision strikes against terror camps in Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan under Operation Sindoor, a parallel battle emerged in the realm of cyberspace. This four-day confrontation, which began on May 7, saw Indian troops not only intercepting waves of Pakistani drones attempting aerial incursions but also cyber operatives tirelessly working to combat a series of digital attacks. Defence sources indicated that even before Indian missiles struck nine terror camps in retaliation, state-backed hackers and hacktivist groups were already targeting India’s digital infrastructure.
In the wake of a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in April, the website of the Army Nursing College in Jalandhar was breached and defaced with a provocative message. By May 5, coordinated cyberattacks had also targeted at least four Army Public Schools, including those in Nagrota and Sunjuwan. Although swift action mitigated the damage, these incidents represent a significant escalation in the hybrid warfare tactics employed by opposing forces.
A senior member of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses noted, “Disinformation and psychological operations are now standard elements of modern conflict. Even false narratives are tools of warfare, aimed at spreading confusion and lowering morale.” In response to these escalating threats, India enacted its digital defence protocols. A top defence source confirmed that “appropriate and necessary measures” were implemented to enhance cyber resilience and protect critical infrastructure.
Cybersecurity agencies were put on high alert, keeping a close watch on potential threats linked to cross-border activities. While both nations have since agreed to ceasefire measures, the Indian defence establishment remains vigilant. As the theatre of conflict expands from traditional battlefields to the digital domain, India’s military and cyber defenders continue to guard against threats both in the air and online.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/national/india-fought-off-cyber-offensive-amid-operation-sindoor-defence-sources-1577473
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Publish Date: 2025-05-14 18:44:00
