On Sunday, Supriya Sule, a prominent leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), disclosed that her phone and WhatsApp account had been hacked. She urgently requested the public to refrain from calling or texting her, citing concerns over privacy and security. Sule took to social media to inform her followers of the situation, emphasizing the seriousness of the breach.
Hackers’ Demands and Financial Threat
The hackers, after gaining access to Sule’s WhatsApp, demanded $400 from her team. They also targeted Aditi Nalawade, the party general secretary, by hacking her WhatsApp and asking for ₹10,000. The hackers even provided bank details for transferring the ransom, showing their intent to exploit the situation for financial gain.
Official Response and Police Involvement
Sule reported the incident to the Yavat police station and met with Superintendent of Police Pankaj Deshmukh, who assured her of a thorough investigation. The MP expressed her concerns about the breach, noting that she had nothing to hide but was deeply troubled by the unauthorized access to her personal communications.
Acknowledgment of Support
In her update on social media, Sule thanked the WhatsApp team and Pune rural police for their prompt support in addressing the issue. She apologized to anyone who might have received messages during the technical glitch, explaining that she was unable to respond due to the ongoing security issue.
Income Tax Notice Controversy
In a separate development, Sule mentioned receiving a notice from the income tax department following the recent budget session. She expressed suspicion about the timing of these notices, linking them to her parliamentary activities. Sule is seeking data to verify her concerns and has requested her husband, Sadanand Sule, to assist in gathering this information.
Historical Context and Personal Impact
The hacking incident highlights the increasing vulnerabilities faced by public figures in the digital age. This situation underscores the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and vigilance, especially for those in high-profile positions. The breach of Sule’s communications not only disrupts her personal life but also raises questions about privacy and security in the digital era.