Second-Year Student Arrested for Selling Sensitive Data on Dark Web
Sriganganagar, February 25: A second-year BA student from Shrikaranpur has been arrested for allegedly selling sensitive data of the Indian government and private sector entities on the dark web. The police recovered 4500 GB of data, five lakh Aadhar cards, and sensitive military information from his possession.
The 20-year-old student, identified as Amit, was apprehended by a joint team of the Intelligence Bureau and Srikaranpur Police during a raid on Saturday night. Initial investigations revealed that Amit, whose father works in Dubai, operated the data-selling network from his home. He reportedly developed an interest in the dark web and deep web while playing online games in 2018.
According to Srikaranpur Police CO Sudha Palawat, Amit was the administrator of a Telegram channel where he uploaded obscene material and sold the stolen data. He confessed to acquiring roughly five lakh Aadhar cards, military data from various countries, and 4500 GB of data through the dark web. So far, the authorities have traced transactions worth Rs 1 lakh 11 thousand linked to these activities.
The police seized three mobile phones, a laptop, a computer, pen drives, hard disks, SSDs, and other items from Amit's residence. The National Security Agency and the police are conducting a joint investigation into the case. Authorities have recovered Rs 23,700 cash from him and suspect he might have been selling the data to foreign entities.
During interrogation, Amit admitted to his addiction to online gaming, which led him to explore the deeper reaches of the internet. He reportedly learned about the dark web and deep web through YouTube tutorials and used the platform to buy and sell sensitive data.
The case highlights the growing threat posed by individuals who exploit readily available online resources to engage in cybercrime activities. It underscores the need for increased awareness and vigilance among internet users, particularly young people, regarding the dangers associated with the dark web and deep web.
