Nepal Secretary WhatsApp Hack Cybercrime: Rabi Lal Pantha Impersonation
14th April 2025, Kathmandu
Rabi Lal Pantha, Secretary of the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, has become a target of a cybercrime incident. His WhatsApp account was hacked recently. The ministry issued an official statement confirming the incident.
Nepal Secretary WhatsApp Hack Cybercrime
Ministry Issues Alert
Shekhar Nidhi Paudyal, an officer at the ministry’s Good Governance Promotion Section, released the information on Sunday. He stated that Pantha’s WhatsApp account had been accessed without authorization. The hacker used Pantha’s profile photo and sent messages from the number 9807543262.
These messages went to several government officials. The content of the messages attempted to misuse the secretary’s identity. The aim appeared to be to defame the secretary and possibly to commit fraud.
Fraudulent Activities Detected
The hacker tried to impersonate Secretary Pantha. They sent messages pretending to be him. Several ministry staff members received the fake messages. These messages attempted to take advantage of the secretary’s official position.
According to Paudyal’s notice, the hacker’s goal was to damage the reputation of the federal secretary. They also intended to deceive and possibly scam other officials. The use of Pantha’s photo and name added to the seriousness of the incident.
Ministry Warns Employees
Following the hack, the ministry issued a warning. It urged all employees to remain cautious. Staff members were asked not to respond to suspicious messages. The ministry asked them to report any unusual communication.
Officials have said the case will be investigated. The ministry will work with law enforcement and cybersecurity agencies. They aim to identify the person or group behind the attack.
Cybersecurity Awareness Needed
This incident has raised concerns about digital safety in government offices. As more communication moves online, risks have also grown. Cybersecurity threats such as hacking and impersonation are becoming more common.
The misuse of a senior official’s digital identity has alarmed many. The ministry acknowledged the need for stronger digital security. Officials are discussing steps to avoid similar attacks in the future.
Plans for awareness campaigns and security training are being considered. The ministry may also introduce stricter communication guidelines for high-ranking officials.
Trust at Risk
The attack on Secretary Pantha’s WhatsApp account is more than just a technical breach. It is an attack on trust. When official identities are misused, confidence in digital communication weakens.
The ministry emphasized that no confidential or financial information had been compromised yet. However, the attempt to defame and deceive is being taken seriously.
Final Note
The ministry is committed to resolving the issue. It will take action to ensure such incidents do not repeat. Officials are hopeful that stricter digital safeguards and awareness will reduce future risks.
In today’s digital age, even top officials must be vigilant. This case highlights the importance of cybersecurity and responsible digital use in the public sector.
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