On April 11, 2025, Maharashtra Cyber Police issued advisories to several state government departments, including the Maharashtra Public Service Commission, Directorate General of Information and Public Relations (DGIPR), Electricity Department, and Maha DBT, urging them to bolster their cybersecurity measures. This action was prompted by the discovery of sensitive credentials—such as usernames, passwords, and APN keys—pertaining to these departments on the darknet, indicating potential vulnerabilities to cyberattacks .
In response to these threats, Maharashtra Cyber has recommended that departments strengthen their website security to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches. Additionally, the agency has taken steps to address non-compliance by certain online platforms:mhcyber.gov.in+3
- Wikipedia: Maharashtra Cyber found objectionable content related to Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj on Wikipedia. Despite issuing multiple notices to Wikipedia and its parent organization, Wikimedia Foundation, requesting the removal of such content and disclosure of user information responsible for the edits, no compliance was received. Consequently, Maharashtra Cyber has written to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), recommending the blocking of Wikipedia under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act .
- Proton Mail: The agency reported that Proton Mail was allegedly used to send hoax bomb threats targeting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. Legal notices were sent to Proton Mail requesting crucial user information necessary for investigation, but no response was received. Due to repeated non-compliance, Maharashtra Cyber has formally recommended to MeitY the blocking of Proton Mail services under the Information Technology Act .
To further enhance cybersecurity awareness and response, Maharashtra Cyber is developing a mobile application aimed at educating citizens and facilitating the reporting of cybercrimes. This initiative is part of the broader Maharashtra Cyber Security Project, a comprehensive program launched in 2023 with an approximate budget of ₹837 crore. The project aims to strengthen the state’s cyber defenses by establishing a robust cybersecurity infrastructure, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement agencies .
For more information or to report cyber incidents, individuals can visit the official Maharashtra Cyber portal at mhcyber.gov.in or the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in.
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