DDoS Attacks on Indian Infrastructure Surge by 50% in 2024, Reveals Positive Technologies Study

DDoS Attacks on Indian Infrastructure Surge by 50% in 2024: Positive Technologies Report

All India, December 13, 2024 — A recent study by Positive Technologies reveals a staggering 50% increase in distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks targeting Indian infrastructure since the start of 2024. This alarming trend underscores the growing threat posed by cybercriminals in a nation rapidly advancing in digital technology.

The study, which analyzed dark web platforms and cybercrime services, highlights that attackers are primarily focused on accessing databases and critical infrastructure across various sectors. Notably, the Indian Space Research Organization faces over 100 hacking attempts daily, illustrating the scale of the challenge.

India’s emergence as the world’s third-largest digital economy has created a fertile ground for cyberattacks. While digital tools have spurred innovation and entrepreneurship, they have also attracted malicious actors eager to exploit vulnerabilities. The financial sector bears the brunt of these attacks, with a staggering 85% of DDoS incidents aimed at financial institutions, while government agencies account for the remaining 15%.

The report further reveals that India ranks among the top three countries for dark web advertisements related to leaked and stolen databases. A significant 42% of dark web posts pertain to database-related offers, with over half being distributed for free, often attributed to hacktivists and ransomware groups.

Experts warn that the low cost of access credentials—often available for under $1,000—combined with the free distribution of personal data, could lead to an uptick in cyberattacks. Positive Technologies emphasizes the urgent need for organizations to adopt robust cybersecurity measures, including advanced monitoring systems and threat detection tools, to safeguard against these escalating threats.

As India continues to navigate its digital transformation, the call for enhanced cybersecurity has never been more critical.