The vibrant world of sports was shaken when Hockey India’s official account on the social media platform ‘X’ (formerly known as Twitter) was hacked shortly after a significant victory. The incident occurred on September 18, 2024, just a day after the Indian hockey team clinched the Asian Champions Trophy by defeating China 1-0, marking their fifth title win in this prestigious tournament.
The Hacking Incident
The Indian hockey team’s triumph on September 17 enthralled fans across the nation, but the celebration was short-lived. Late on the night of September 18, Hockey India’s account was compromised. The hackers exploited this situation, posting a message related to cryptocurrency around 11:30 PM, which left many supporters alarmed. Fortunately, the account was promptly recovered, and the unauthorized post was removed.
Details of the Hack
In a brazen move, the hackers used Hockey India’s official account to promote a cryptocurrency scheme. They claimed, “This account has been hacked. We publish a token address on whichever account we hack and earn profit along with it.” This statement raised immediate concern amongst Indian hockey fans, who quickly recognized the incident and spread the word about the hack.
Hockey India account hacked! @TheHockeyIndia #x pic.twitter.com/plfdJVFVof
— Prateek Pratyay (@PratyayPrateek) September 18, 2024
Hockey India utho!!!! Account has been hacked.. pic.twitter.com/Ru98i471DC
— MAKRAND (@connectwithPup) September 18, 2024
Hockey India acc hacked ????
— Babu Bhaiya (@Shahrcasm) September 18, 2024
Team India’s Recent Success
Despite the cybersecurity breach, the atmosphere surrounding the Indian hockey team remains jubilant. Following their victory in the Asian Champions Trophy, the team returned home to a warm welcome at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on September 19, 2024. This achievement was not only significant for the players but also for the nation, as India secured the title for the fifth time since the tournament’s inception in 2011.
The tournament has seen tremendous competition over the years, with India winning its first title in 2011 and attempting to reclaim glory in subsequent tournaments. In 2016, India won again, and in 2018, shared the title with Pakistan. After winning for the fourth time in 2023, the team successfully defended its title in 2024, demonstrating consistent excellence on the field. Fans were hopeful for a smoother match given India’s form, yet China put forth an admirable defense, pushing India to earn their victory late in the game.
This recent success, coupled with a bronze medal in the Paris Olympics, underscores India’s growing dominance in the world of hockey, inspiring a new generation of players and uniting fans across the country.
