Cyber Crime
Cybersecurity Alert: Officials Gear Up to Protect Online Activities During Historic Ram Mandir Event
Fraudulent Websites Exploiting Devotees Under Scrutiny Ahead of Ram Mandir Ceremony.
AYODHYA: As the holy city of Ayodhya prepares to witness the historic innauguration of the Ram Mandir on January 22, a silent battle is brewing in the digital realm. The Indian government, anticipating a surge in online activity and potential cyber threats, has deployed a formidable digital shield to safeguard the event’s sanctity.
A joint team of cyber warriors, chosen from the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITy), the Intelligence Bureau (IB), and CERT-In, has descended upon Ayodhya.
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These digital sentinels, armed with cutting-edge technology and keen vigilance, will meticulously monitor online activity, scan for suspicious websites and apps, and neutralize any cyber threats before they can materialize. The move comes amidst concerns of potential cyber threats originating from hackers in Pakistan and Indonesia, who might attempt to interfere with online content or hack the broadcast.
The immense fervor surrounding the Ram Mandir consecration has unfortunately attracted unscrupulous actors seeking to exploit devotees’ piety. Fake websites and social media campaigns, masquerading as official channels, have proliferated, luring unsuspecting individuals into donating money for ‘Prasad’ from the temple. These nefarious schemes not only pilfer hard-earned money but also compromise personal data, posing a grave risk of identity theft and financial fraud.
The Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust (SRJBT), the official custodian of the temple, has issued stern disclaimers, urging devotees to exercise caution and only rely on verified channels for donations.
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The Union Home Ministry, through its cyber security wing, has amplified the warning, alerting the public about the dangers of “malicious mobile applications” promising VIP entry to the temple. These apps, often laced with malware, can compromise devices and steal sensitive information.
The government’s cyber defense efforts extend far beyond the consecration ceremony. The I4C, established under the National Cyber Security Strategy 2020, is spearheading a nationwide campaign to bolster India’s cyber infrastructure and cultivate a culture of digital awareness among citizens. This proactive approach aims to create a resilient cyberspace, safeguarding not just religious events but also India’s critical infrastructure and digital economy.
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The Ram Mandir consecration transcends its religious significance, symbolizing the culmination of a decades-long struggle for countless devotees. The Indian government’s unwavering commitment to cybersecurity ensures that this momentous occasion can be celebrated with unbridled joy, both in the physical realm and the digital sphere. The invisible guardians of the online world, working tirelessly in the shadows, stand as a testament to India’s resolve to protect its digital frontiers and ensure a secure future for its citizens.