Serious Concerns Over Defence Data Security and Public Digital Safety
India’s national security ecosystem is facing grave concerns following allegations of a major cyber intrusion involving defence-related institutions. According to claims circulating on the dark web, a ransomware group known as Babuk Locker Group has asserted responsibility for breaching multiple Indian government and military databases.
The group has alleged that approximately 20 terabytes (TB) of sensitive data were accessed and exfiltrated. If these claims are verified, the incident would represent a significant threat to national security and raise serious questions about the robustness of India’s digital defence infrastructure.
Institutions Allegedly Affected
Based on information publicly claimed by the hacking group, the following defence and security-related organizations are said to be impacted:
- Ministry of Defence
- DRDO
- Indian Navy
- Border Security Force
- Department of Defence Production
- Secretary of Defence (Military)
- ALISDA
- DGAQA
- MSQAA
The hackers claim the compromised data spans multiple years (2011–2025), indicating long-term exposure or archival access.
Nature of the Allegedly Compromised Data
According to the claims made on dark-web forums, the stolen material may include:
- Sensitive defence technology documentation
- Missile systems and weapons-related data
- Information on defence manufacturing companies
- Employee and officer personal details
- Border security and troop movement data
- Internal communications of defence departments
Such information, if authentic, could pose serious risks to India’s strategic, military, and civilian safety.
Accessed Materials and Preliminary Observations
It is further stated that limited datasets available on the dark web were accessed for verification purposes. These allegedly include confidential records related to a BrahMos project phase, containing details of approximately 4,900 officers and personnel.
The claimed data reportedly includes:
- Identification numbers and unit details
- Mobile numbers and employee IDs
- Copies of Aadhaar and passport documents
- Missile imagery and technical diagrams
- Armoured vehicle details
- Information relating to VVIP security locations in Delhi
These claims remain unverified and require immediate official investigation.
Implications for Digital India and Public Trust
This situation raises serious concerns regarding:
- The safety of government and defence databases
- Protection of personal data of armed forces personnel
- Preparedness against cyber warfare and ransomware threats
- The credibility of India’s Digital India and cybersecurity framework
If proven true, the breach underscores the urgent need for cybersecurity reforms, accountability, and transparent risk assessment across all sensitive government systems.
Formal Request for Investigation
Respectfully addressed to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India,
We urge the Government of India to initiate an independent, high-level investigation into these alleged data leaks. National security, public safety, and the trust of citizens depend on swift action, transparency, and corrective measures.
Safeguarding defence information is not only a strategic necessity—it is a constitutional responsibility.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available claims and information circulating on the dark web. No assertion herein should be treated as confirmed without official verification by competent authorities.