Latest news with #DanceoftheHillary
Time of India
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Fraud calls from Pakistan numbers rise amid new malware threat
Kolkata: Even cyberspace is witnessing a war, with allegations of organised Pakistani hacking groups attempting to hack leading websites. Indian intelligence agencies uncovered a Pakistan-linked cyber-attack campaign involving a dangerous malware named Dance of the Hillary. According to Punjab and Maharashtra cops, this malware is being spread via popular social media platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram, and email. It infiltrates smartphones through video or document files and, once opened, can access sensitive user data such as banking information, passwords, and personal details. The malware may also enable remote control of infected the "war" is not just limited to organised malware attacks. There is also a major spike in individual attempts to deceive victims with hoax calls. Both Kolkata Police's cyber cell and Bengal Police, led by the CID and the Cyber Crime Unit (CCU), have now listed the do's and don'ts on how to deal with such calls."One form is to flood your phone with fake news to make it sound 'believable'. Similarly, fraudulent extortion calls from +92 (Pakistan ISD number) have seen a sudden jump as tension rose between the two nations post the Pahalgam attacks, with fraudsters using two modus operandi — threatening digital arrest of the victims or threatening that their son/daughter was detained by police/central agencies," said a police a fresh post on their social media page, cops have even provided an example of the crime so that it is easily understandable for citizens. At the end, they also shared tips to avoid falling victim to such crimes. "Always trust only official sources for information or govt instructions. Always check official sources before forwarding. Immediately report fake news. Do not share any news on troop movement or plans. Do not share any communal or offensive content under any circumstances," the police stated."It is a warning about the clever tactics that cybercriminals use to exploit emotions and technology gaps. Always double-check any claims made by unknown callers, especially those pretending to be from the police. No legitimate officer demands money via phone calls. The caller's number, for example, like +92, should send an alarm to the potential victim. Stay calm. Panic can lead to poor decisions," they wrote."Always try to contact the person projected as the victim and remain composed before taking action. Contact local police. Educate family members. Make sure that elderly family members are aware of potential scams and know how to avoid them. Call 1930 — the national cybercrime portal — and the divisional cyber cell and lodge an FIR," they said that even the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), earlier this year, issued an advisory to citizens about calls from foreign numbers, especially from Pakistan. According to the ministry, these calls are being received by citizens wherein callers, initially, in the name of DoT, threatened mobile users that their numbers would be disconnected. Kolkata: Even cyberspace is witnessing a war, with allegations of organised Pakistani hacking groups attempting to hack leading websites. Indian intelligence agencies uncovered a Pakistan-linked cyber-attack campaign involving a dangerous malware named Dance of the Hillary. According to Punjab and Maharashtra cops, this malware is being spread via popular social media platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram, and email. It infiltrates smartphones through video or document files and, once opened, can access sensitive user data such as banking information, passwords, and personal details. The malware may also enable remote control of infected the "war" is not just limited to organised malware attacks. There is also a major spike in individual attempts to deceive victims with hoax calls. Both Kolkata Police's cyber cell and Bengal Police, led by the CID and the Cyber Crime Unit (CCU), have now listed the do's and don'ts on how to deal with such calls."One form is to flood your phone with fake news to make it sound 'believable'. Similarly, fraudulent extortion calls from +92 (Pakistan ISD number) have seen a sudden jump as tension rose between the two nations post the Pahalgam attacks, with fraudsters using two modus operandi — threatening digital arrest of the victims or threatening that their son/daughter was detained by police/central agencies," said a police a fresh post on their social media page, cops have even provided an example of the crime so that it is easily understandable for citizens. At the end, they also shared tips to avoid falling victim to such crimes. "Always trust only official sources for information or govt instructions. Always check official sources before forwarding. Immediately report fake news. Do not share any news on troop movement or plans. Do not share any communal or offensive content under any circumstances," the police stated."It is a warning about the clever tactics that cybercriminals use to exploit emotions and technology gaps. Always double-check any claims made by unknown callers, especially those pretending to be from the police. No legitimate officer demands money via phone calls. The caller's number, for example, like +92, should send an alarm to the potential victim. Stay calm. Panic can lead to poor decisions," they wrote."Always try to contact the person projected as the victim and remain composed before taking action. Contact local police. Educate family members. Make sure that elderly family members are aware of potential scams and know how to avoid them. Call 1930 — the national cybercrime portal — and the divisional cyber cell and lodge an FIR," they said that even the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), earlier this year, issued an advisory to citizens about calls from foreign numbers, especially from Pakistan. According to the ministry, these calls are being received by citizens wherein callers, initially, in the name of DoT, threatened mobile users that their numbers would be disconnected.
Time of India
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
'Dance of the Hillary': Guard your data, Punjab Police warn of Pak virus onslaught
BATHINDA: They hostile neighbour is trying a new war hack in tango with internet crooks. Indian intelligence agencies have uncovered a Pakistan-linked cyber-attack campaign involving a dangerous malware named Dance of the Hillary , which is being spread via popular social media platforms as tensions flare between the two countries. Spreading through social media platforms Punjab Police claim that the malware is being circulated through platforms including WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram, and email. It infiltrates smartphones through video or document files and, once opened, can access sensitive user data such as banking information, passwords, and personal details. The malware may also enable remote control of infected devices. Authorities said the threat emerged during ' Operation Sindoor ', an ongoing response to the terror attack in Pahalgam. A Pakistani operative, posing as an Indian defence official, reportedly used a WhatsApp number to call journalists and civilians in an attempt to extract information about the situation on the ground. "People are advised strongly not to click on suspicious links or respond to messages from unknown sources," a senior Punjab Police official said. "These could be attempts to compromise personal or national security." In a cyber alert posted to X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Punjab Police warned the users: "Pakistan-based hackers are spreading malware named Dance of the Hillary. Do not click on unknown links - this malware can steal your data and control your device." Security agencies continue to monitor the threat and have urged the public to remain vigilant.
Hindustan Times
12-05-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Cybercriminals exploit Indo-Pak tension to steal data: Bengaluru police chief
Bengaluru: The Bengaluru police have warned the public about cyber fraudsters using the India-Pakistan conflict situation to spread malicious content and steal personal data. Police commissioner B Dayananda, in a video advisory, said that cybercriminals are capitalising on the public's curiosity about the Indo-Pak conflict by circulating fake news and phishing links that can compromise both personal and financial information. 'These criminals take advantage of your curiosity to deceive you into dangerous situations,' Dayananda said, urging the public to stay alert and avoid falling for frauds disguised as news or updates related to the ongoing conflict. According to the police, common cyber threats include messages claiming to offer leaked videos or exclusive insights into military operations. These often lead unsuspecting users to fraudulent websites or trigger malware downloads that can harvest sensitive data from personal devices. The advisory highlighted specific file names and messages that should raise red flags, such as 'Army job application', 'Dance of the Hillary', and 'Executive file These have been identified as classic phishing tools designed to lure victims into revealing personal information or infect their devices. In response to the rising threat, the police have issued a list of safety measures for social media and WhatsApp users. The public is urged to avoid opening unknown files—even if sent by known contacts—and to refrain from forwarding suspicious content. Additionally, users are advised to only install apps from verified online stores and to steer clear of links claiming to show breaking news or videos related to the conflict. 'Report and exit suspicious WhatsApp groups immediately,' the advisory said, underscoring the need for community vigilance. Dayananda also recommended disabling auto-download features on WhatsApp and activating two-step verification to bolster account security. He stressed the importance of being cautious with emails from unfamiliar sources, especially those using urgent language tied to the conflict. People should avoid clicking on unsolicited links or downloading attachments, even if the emails appear to be from trusted organisations. Scammers frequently impersonate legitimate sources in phishing emails, so users are encouraged to verify email addresses closely. For broader cyber protection, the public is urged to enable two-factor authentication, maintain updated antivirus software, and routinely back up important data. Messages promising sensational content should be treated with suspicion, as they may be fronts for fake news or malware attacks.
Time of India
12-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Punjab Police issues advisory against malware spread by Pakistan-based hackers
Amid tensions between India and Pakistan, the Punjab Police on Monday advised people to remain alert of a malware allegedly being spread by Pakistan-based hackers , saying it could be used to steal personal and banking information. The police advised people against clicking on unknown links or messages. #Operation Sindoor The damage done at Pak bases as India strikes to avenge Pahalgam Why Pakistan pleaded to end hostilities Kashmir's Pahalgam sparks Karachi's nightmare "A dangerous malware named 'Dance of the Hillary' is being spread by Pakistan-based hackers, targeting Indian users via WhatsApp, Facebook and email," the Punjab Police said in a post on X. A malware is a malicious software specifically designed to disrupt, damage or gain access to a computer system. Continue to video 5 5 Next Stay Playback speed 1x Normal Back 0.25x 0.5x 1x Normal 1.5x 2x 5 5 / Skip Ads by by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Harry Potter Actress Stuns Fans With Grown-up Pics Lawyers Favorite Undo The "Dance of Hillary" malware can steal banking information, passwords and personal data and may even allow remote control of devices, the police said. "Do not click unknown links or messages from strangers. Stay alert, stay secure." The police also advised against downloading files shared by unknown users. Live Events India and Pakistan reached an understanding on Saturday to halt military actions after four days of intense cross-border drone and missile strikes.
News18
12-05-2025
- Politics
- News18
‘Dance Of Hillary' To ‘Calls From Military': Pak Targets Indian Journalists, Security Personnel
Last Updated: Agencies, police in border states have issued alerts about a campaign by Pakistani spies targeting Indian journalists and forces personnel through calls and malware attacks While the India-Pakistan conflict may have reached ceasefire, Pakistani Intelligence Operatives (PIOs) continue their attacks. Security agencies and police in border states have issued multiple alerts warning about an ongoing campaign by PIOs targeting Indian journalists and forces personnel through deceptive phone calls and malware attacks. THE MALWARE The Punjab Police Cyber Crime Wing has flagged a malware code-named 'Dance of the Hillary', being spread via WhatsApp, Facebook, and email. The advisory warns that clicking on suspicious links could lead to the theft of personal data, including bank information, passwords, and sensitive personal credentials. 'Do not engage with or open any unsolicited messages or links," the advisory reads, adding that the malware is believed to be operated from across the border and tailored for cyberespionage. PHONE CALLS FROM PAK SPIES In a separate intelligence note, authorities have revealed that Pakistani intelligence officers have been making phone calls posing as Indian military officials, attempting to extract information about military movements, sensitive deployments, and high-security installations. These calls have reportedly targeted both security forces personnel and journalists under the guise of requesting 'routine verification" or information updates. In cases that emerged on Monday, Pakistani handlers impersonating defence personnel during ongoing internal security operations such as 'Operation Sindoor' called journalists covering national security. Multiple journalists received calls from Pakistan-based numbers. 'DO NOT FALL FOR SUCH ATTEMPTS' Since 2021, such psychological operations have intensified. 'It has come to the notice that Pakistan Intelligence officers are trying to contact force personnel for getting information about the movement, deployment of senior officers and forces-related information like highly sensitive deployment, vital installations etc., by making phone calls, mobile phones introducing themselves as officers of own/other forces. Calls have been made to control rooms. All personnel are instructed not to share anything without verifying credentials," one input says. Indian agencies are urging all to remain vigilant and report any suspicious communication attempts. 'Please DO NOT fall for such attempts. The intention is to exploit trust and gather critical information that could threaten national security," the alert emphasised. The Jammu and Kashmir Police, Punjab Police and central cyber agencies have issued advisories regarding the same. Citizens are being advised to ignore and immediately report such calls to cybercrime helplines or local law enforcement. First Published: May 12, 2025, 17:15 IST
