A major cyber attack has targeted Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) Shimla, with Pakistani hackers taking control of the university’s main website. The attack occurred on Monday evening, redirecting visitors to a fraudulent URL filled with abusive comments and photos in support of Pakistan and against India.
What Happened?
Users attempting to access the university’s website, hpuniv.ac.in, found themselves redirected to a hacker-controlled page. The university took swift action by shutting down the site and putting it into maintenance mode. The Cyber Crime Cell has initiated an investigation, with the university’s website team confirming the tampering of the site’s URL.
Impact on Students
The cyber attack disrupted access to crucial information such as PG admissions, counseling schedules, and updates for the upcoming academic session, causing inconvenience to students across Himachal Pradesh.
Rising Cyber Threats
This breach comes amid increasing cyber attacks following tensions between India and Pakistan. Cybersecurity experts have warned that such attacks are likely to increase, especially targeting government and educational websites.
How to Stay Safe from Cyber Attacks
Here are some simple steps to protect yourself from cyber threats:
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Change passwords regularly.
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Use strong, unique passwords for every account.
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Be cautious of phishing emails and suspicious links.
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Update software and operating systems frequently.
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Use a VPN for secure communication.
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Avoid storing sensitive info on devices or third-party apps.
Cyber Crime Investigation
The Cyber Crime Cell is currently investigating the incident. Mohan Chawla, DIG of the Cell, stated that such attacks have surged recently, urging all institutions to secure their systems.
This cyber attack on HPU Shimla highlights the need for enhanced cybersecurity in educational institutions. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to safeguard your data.