India Blocks Exchange Websites Abroad Amid Rising Tensions with Pakistan

India has temporarily restricted access to the websites of its top two stock exchanges, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and BSE, for users outside the country. The move comes amid heightened tensions with Pakistan following cross-border strikes and concerns over potential cyber threats.

On Wednesday, India carried out missile strikes on targets in Pakistan in response to a deadly attack last month on Hindu pilgrims in Kashmir. In anticipation of possible retaliation in the form of cyberattacks, Indian authorities have taken precautionary steps.

According to sources who spoke to Reuters, the decision to block foreign access was made during a joint meeting of the exchanges on Tuesday, where cyber threats were discussed. A BSE spokesperson confirmed that the measure was part of routine monitoring and protective action based on cyber traffic patterns.

“BSE, being a critical market infrastructure institution, proactively monitors risks at domestic and international levels,” the spokesperson said. “As a precautionary measure, access to certain websites and locations has been restricted to protect users and systems.”

The restrictions are not affecting domestic market operations, which continue as usual. Access from abroad may still be granted on a case-by-case basis, officials said.

So far, no confirmed cyberattacks have been reported on either Indian or Pakistani infrastructure. However, Indian media has reported an increase in digital threats allegedly originating from Pakistan.

One new social media account, claiming to represent the "Pakistan Cyber Force," alleged it had accessed sensitive data from Indian defense institutions — a claim that has been officially denied by the targeted organizations.

In response, Pakistan’s National Cyber Emergency Response Team issued an advisory warning of ongoing cyber threats and misinformation campaigns targeting critical infrastructure.

“Hostile elements are taking advantage of the current situation to spread misinformation and conduct cyberattacks on vital sectors,” the advisory said.

The missile strikes mark a serious escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, who have fought several wars since gaining independence in 1947. Both countries remain on high alert amid fears of further conflict, both on the ground and in cyberspace.