SHIMLA— An unidentified group claiming links to Pakistan has defaced the official website of Himachal Pradesh University, posting slogans in praise of Pakistan and labelling the attack a “revenge” for India’s recent military campaign, Operation Sindoor. The breach, described by attackers as symbolic retaliation, has sparked concerns over cyber vulnerabilities in Indian academic institutions amid heightened geopolitical tension.
Security Breach Amid Military Tensions
On July 7, IT administrators discovered the homepage had been replaced with the banner “Pakistan Zindabad” and derogatory slogans targeting India. These messages were signed by an alleged hacker collective citing retaliation for Operation Sindoor—a cross-border strike launched by Indian forces in early May.
While no formal case has yet been filed by the University, the State CID Cyber Crime unit, led by DIG Mohit Chawla, has initiated investigations and ordered an emergency IT audit. A national advisory is now in effect, urging universities and government institutions to bolster their cybersecurity posture with updated firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
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Cyber Retaliation as a Tool of Psychological Warfare
Cybersecurity experts warn these attacks aim less at gaining access than at sending symbolic, morale‑shaking messages in the digital domain. Following Operation Sindoor—a strategic military initiative—psychological and digital reprisals, including website defacements and disinformation, have surged.
Recent incidents mirror this trend: hacktivist groups have targeted smaller educational and municipal portals to sow uncertainty and undermine confidence in digital governance systems. Officials caution that even non-critical sites can become conduits for larger, coordinated campaigns of cyber propaganda and intrusion.