Indian citizens, beware! A recent security breach has come to light, exposing a duplicity attempt by scammers to exploit trust in government websites. TechCrunch, a well-known tech news platform, discovered that malicious advertisements were placed on several Indian government websites, redirecting users to online betting platforms.
Websites Affected and How the Scam Worked
These misleading ads were found on websites with the “.gov.in” domain, which signifies official government websites of various Indian states. Worryingly, websites belonging to crucial departments like state police and property tax were also affected. This scam involved cleverly masked advertisements that appeared legitimate. Upon clicking, however, unsuspecting users were redirected to websites promoting online betting, often focusing on popular events like the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The Range of the Problem and How Long it Lasted
The exact number of affected websites remains unclear, with estimates suggesting around four dozen “.gov.in” links were compromised across states like Bihar, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Mizoram, and Telangana. It’s also uncertain for how long these malicious ads remained active, potentially exposing a significant number of visitors.
How the Scam Was Exposed and What’s Being Done
Thankfully, this security breach was identified by TechCrunch, who promptly reported the issue to India’s Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In). This vital agency is responsible for cybersecurity threats in India. CERT-In acknowledged the report and confirmed taking necessary actions. They have likely notified the affected government websites and are working to remove the fraudulent ads.
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What You Can Do to Stay Safe
While the situation appears to be under control, it’s crucial for Indian citizens to remain alert. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:
- Be cautious when visiting any website, even those with a “.gov.in” domain. Double-check the website address to ensure it’s the official government website and not a cleverly designed copy.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious advertisements, especially those promoting online betting or offering “get rich quick” schemes.
- If you encounter a misleading ad on a government website, report it immediately to the relevant authorities.
The Importance of Cybersecurity Awareness
This incident highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity awareness. Scammers are constantly creating new methods to exploit vulnerabilities. By staying informed and practicing safe browsing habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to online scams.
M31 Global News: Committed to Keeping You Informed
M31Global News is dedicated to bringing you the latest news and information that impacts you. We will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates as they become available. Stay tuned for more and remember, stay safe online!
The Team, M31Global News