Indian Defence on Cyber Alert: Pakistani Hackers Target Personnel through .IN Domains

NEW DELHI: The Indian government has issued a cybersecurity advisory cautioning that Indian defense personnel are increasingly becoming the targets of Pakistani cyber attackers. These nefarious actors are employing a new tactic, using websites registered under the .IN domain, India’s top-level country code internet domain. This approach adds a layer of complexity, making it challenging to determine the source and operators of these websites.

Sophisticated Tactics Unveiled

Cybersecurity experts have been closely monitoring the tactics employed by cyber threat actors, and this latest revelation sheds light on their constant evolution. These attackers, believed to be based in Pakistan, have been strategically reaching out to their targets within the Indian defense community.

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Indian Navy and DRDO Among the Targets

This alarming development comes at a time when various branches of the Indian defense establishment, including the Indian Navy and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), have been subjected to cyberattacks. DRDO employees, in particular, were targeted with malware cleverly disguised as honey trap prevention guidance.

Notably, the Indian Navy revealed that even their families were not spared, as cybercriminal groups attempted to extract sensitive information from them. These relentless efforts underscore the urgency of addressing cybersecurity concerns within India’s defense sector.

Suspect Domains Identified

The recently released advisory has listed several websites that the government suspects are being hosted by Pakistani threat actors. Some of the domains in question include coorddesk.in, ksboards.in, coordbranch.in, and ksbpanel.in, among others. These websites are believed to serve as potential launching pads for phishing attacks targeting the Armed Forces.

Preventive Measures Recommended

To counter these emerging threats, the government has recommended immediate actions for defense personnel. First and foremost, employees are urged to block access to these suspicious URLs. Additionally, personnel have been advised to educate themselves and their colleagues about the risks associated with such websites.

The advisory also emphasized the importance of downloading applications only from trusted sources, a crucial step in safeguarding sensitive data.

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DogeRAT Malware Circulation Alert

In a related development, it was recently reported that another Indian defense body had warned its employees about the DogeRAT malware. This malware has the capability to infiltrate devices, stealing valuable information and even capturing photos from smartphones. Cybercriminals have been circulating this malware through various channels, including Telegram, disguising it as legitimate applications such as ChatGPT, Opera Mini browser, premium versions of YouTube, and other popular apps and websites.

Staying Vigilant in the Digital Battlefield

As cyber threats continue to evolve and expand, staying vigilant in the digital battlefield has become an imperative for India’s defense community. The government’s advisory serves as a timely reminder that safeguarding sensitive information and maintaining robust cybersecurity measures are paramount in today’s interconnected world. The collaboration between defense personnel, cybersecurity experts, and government agencies is essential to thwart these evolving threats and ensure the safety and security of the nation’s vital assets.

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