Bharat Express

MHA Assembles Elite Task Force to Address Cybersecurity Challenges Ahead of Ram Temple Inauguration

In response to reports of harmful mobile applications targeting citizens via WhatsApp, a dedicated team consisting of representatives from multiple agencies, including the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) and Intelligence Bureau, has been dispatched to safeguard cybersecurity.

Construction work is underway at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple, and commandos are patrolling bikes and vehicles

Construction work is underway at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple, and commandos are patrolling bikes and vehicles

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has taken proactive measures to address potential cyber threats surrounding the imminent inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. A specialized team, consisting of officials from the MHA’s Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITy), Intelligence Bureau (IB), Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), and skilled cyber experts, has been dispatched with the primary objective of ensuring robust cybersecurity for the event.

An official cybercrime alert has been issued, urging the public to exercise caution. The alert highlights a concerning trend involving the distribution of malicious mobile applications (APK) or deceptive forms related to VIP entry for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. These potentially harmful elements are being disseminated through channels such as WhatsApp and advertisements. The warning emphasizes the risk of compromising personal devices and the potential for falling victim to cybercrime fraud.

This concerted effort by the MHA aims to safeguard both the digital infrastructure and individuals attending the Ram Temple inauguration from cyber threats. As technology becomes increasingly intertwined with major events, such proactive measures become crucial in maintaining the integrity and security of these significant occasions.

Cyber alerts and precautions
Amid alerts of cyber threats via WhatsApp, citizens are cautioned about malicious mobile applications related to VIP entry to the Ayodhya temple. The MHA emphasizes vigilance against potential cybercrime fraud.

Prime Minister’s announcement
Ahead of the January 22 ceremony, PM Narendra Modi announced an 11-day ‘anusthan’ (special ritual) and highlighted the global anticipation for the historic Ram temple consecration in Ayodhya.

Event details
The inauguration ceremony will be attended by PM Modi, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and other dignitaries. Invitations extend to seers, families of temple laborers, Bollywood celebrities, cricketers, and industrialists, with over 7,000 individuals on the guest list.

The foundation stone for the Ram temple
PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the Ram temple on August 5, 2020, and the upcoming event marks a significant milestone in Ayodhya’s history. The MHA team’s deployment underscores the importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding the event from potential cyber threats.