Pakistan’s ISI is reportedly strategizing to launch cyber attacks on critical Indian infrastructure, aiming to disrupt defense and financial systems, as per intelligence reports. The ISI is said to be utilizing its Pakistan Cyber Force for these planned attacks, with a surge in activity observed recently. Indian security agencies have raised concerns over potential cyberattacks by Pakistani hackers, utilizing groups like “Cyber Group HOAX1337” and “National Cyber Crew” to target Indian assets.
Officials have highlighted that the ISI-backed groups are particularly focusing on India’s defense sector to compromise systems and access sensitive data. Additionally, the ISI has deployed its espionage wing to gather crucial information, including setting up surveillance equipment like solar-powered CCTV cameras at railway stations to transmit live feeds to handlers in Pakistan. The intelligence suggests a two-pronged approach by the ISI to target Indian assets, involving direct attacks on the defense sector by hacker groups and a disinformation campaign, especially during the ongoing state elections.
Moreover, there are warnings of an increase in hoax calls and dissemination of false narratives, particularly regarding oil and LPG prices, to induce panic buying and black marketing among Indian consumers. The Indian government is actively countering false information spread by Pakistan-based social media accounts. Security agencies have also cautioned about potential hoax messages targeting the education and aviation sectors, which could easily trigger panic. Despite the varied targets, the defense sector remains a top priority for the ISI and Pakistan, with substantial financial resources allocated for hacking, espionage, and disinformation activities.
Furthermore, the ISI has been accused of planting fake news against India in Pakistani media outlets and social platforms to shape a negative narrative. The focus remains on discrediting India through misinformation campaigns, with a significant emphasis on the defense sector.
