Cyber Security Breach at IIT Roorkee: Sam Pitroda Addresses Incident

Cyber security expert Sam Pitroda faced a significant breach during his online session at IIT Roorkee on 1 February 2025. The event, conducted through Zoom, was disrupted when an unidentified hacker gained access to the video link and began broadcasting explicit material. Minutes after Pitroda commenced his lecture, he took to X (formerly Twitter) to report the incident.

According to Pitroda, the situation unfolded swiftly. He described the experience, stating that the team had to immediately terminate the video and conclude the session due to the inappropriate content being shared publicly.

In his posts, he expressed deep concern over the implications of the hacking incident, highlighting its broader relevance to cyber security in educational settings.

He had shared that there was an invitation to speak at IIT Roorkee @iitroorkee during a Cognizant event, participating with both students and faculty. Unfortunately, just moments after the discussion commenced, the breach occurred.

“It is deeply disturbing that such incidents occur, especially in academic spaces meant for learning and growth. Cyber Security remains a critical concern, and this serves as a stark reminder of the importance of digital safety and vigilance,” Pitroda explained.

The recent breach follows a controversy surrounding Pitroda’s earlier claims about speaking at IIT Ranchi, which he made during a podcast on 22 February. The Ministry of Education responded, clarifying that there is no IIIT in Ranchi, labelling Pitroda’s earlier statement as false and “baseless.”

According to the Ministry, “It is hereby clarified that there is no IIT in Ranchi. Therefore, the statement made in that video is not only baseless but also reeks of ignorance.” Moreover, the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) in Ranchi confirmed that they have never extended an invitation to Pitroda.

Sam Pitroda has been known for his contentious remarks, which frequently attract attention. Earlier this month, he mentioned that the perceived threat from China is often exaggerated, asserting that the US is in search of an adversary.

“I don’t understand the threat from China. I think this issue is often blown out of proportion because the US tends to define an enemy. I believe the time has come for all nations to collaborate, not confront. Our approach has been confrontational from the very beginning, and this attitude creates enemies, which in turn garners support within the country. We need to change this mindset and stop assuming that China is the enemy from day one,” he stated.

The Congress party distanced itself from Pitroda’s comments regarding China. Jairam Ramesh articulated on X that Pitroda’s views do not align with the party’s stance. He asserted, “China remains our foremost foreign policy, external security, as well as economic challenge.”