The official website of the Canadian Armed Forces went offline temporarily on Wednesday due to a cyberattack. This interruption was brought to light by a report from The Telegraph, which revealed that a group named the 'Indian Cyber Force' had claimed responsibility for the hack via a post on X (earlier known as Twitter). The website was operational again later in the day, as confirmed by Daniel Le Bouthillier, the head of media relations at the Department of National Defence. 

Indian Cyber Force made a bold proclamation on X, saying "Canadian Airforce Website has been taken down". They even showcased a screenshot of the error message encountered on the website. 

Source: The Globe and Mail

While the interruption did not affect all devices, a majority of mobile users were unable to access the site, as indicated by The Globe and Mail's findings. Despite the ordeal, Le Bouthillier made certain to assure the public that there seemed to be no additional threats to their systems. He emphasized that the targeted site is entirely separate from the Government of Canada and the Department of National Defence's public websites and internal servers. 

Further Investigation and Prior Warnings 

The Canadian Forces, responsible for all military operations including but not limited to navy, special command groups, air, and space operations, are currently intensively investigating the matter. Furthermore, the Indian Cyber Force had allegedly issued a warning on September 21 via social media, cautioning Canadians to "get ready to feel the power" of its imminent attacks on Canadian digital domains. Shortly after on September 22, the group revealed their dissatisfaction with the Canadian government due to "allegations and anti-India politics". 

Source: The Telegraph

report

Tense Standoff 

In an even more stirring context, this cyberattack occurred amidst a tense diplomatic standoff between India and Canada. The standoff was initiated when Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, last week, brought forth serious allegations against India following the demise of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India, in robust retaliation, dismissed such claims as "absurd" and encouraged Canada to take strict actions against any terrorists and anti-India elements that might be operating from Canadian territory. As a result, visa services for Canadians have been currently suspended by India. 

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