Dream11 Security Breach: Director Arrested for Alleged Data Hack and Extortion | BulletsIn

The security director of Dream11, a prominent sports technology company, has been arrested by the Maharashtra Nodal Cyber Department for allegedly hacking into the company’s crucial data systems to extort money. Abhishek Pratap Singh is accused of compromising sensitive data and threatening to release it on the dark web unless his demands were met. The case has brought to light significant concerns about data security and corporate governance in the online gaming sector.

BulletsIn

• Arrest of Dream11 Security Director: Abhishek Pratap Singh, the Security Director of Dream11, was arrested by the Maharashtra Nodal Cyber Department for allegedly hacking and attempting to extort the company.
• Alleged Extortion Attempt: Singh allegedly hacked Dream11’s data and threatened to release it on the dark web unless his demands were met.
• Initial Threatening Email: On August 11, Singh reportedly sent a threatening email to five senior Dream11 officials, including the CEO, stating that a City hub account had been compromised.
• Sensitive Data Accessed: The email claimed that 1,200 repositories were accessible and included 61 files of critical data that could disrupt Dream11’s operations.
• Response from Dream11 IT Team: Following the initial email, Dream11’s Vice President of IT sought to connect with Singh to discuss the issue.
• Further Extortion Threats: Singh allegedly responded on August 12, stating that there were buyers for the compromised data, indicating his intent to sell it if demands were not met.
• Police Involvement: An employee named Jamshid Bhopati filed an FIR with the Maharashtra cyber cell regarding the hacking and extortion attempt.
• Arrest Details: Based on Call Detail Records (CDR), police traced Singh’s location to Bengaluru, Karnataka, and arrested him from his residence.
• Seizure of Evidence: The police seized Singh’s laptop and mobile phone, which were allegedly used in the hacking and extortion attempts, for further investigation.
• Legal Proceedings: Singh was produced before the Esplanade court and granted police custody until August 26, facing charges under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act of 2000.