By Ajit K Dubey

Intelligence agencies have unearthed a cyber security breach by military officials which is suspected to be linked to related spying activities by a neighbouring country.

"Military and Intelligence agencies have unearthed a cyber security breach by some military officials, which is likely to be linked to espionage-related activities by a neighbouring country. The breach has been reported on certain WhatsApp groups," defence sources told ANI.

Suspected Pakistani and Chinese intelligence operatives have been attempting to engage with military personnel on social media platforms in an effort to gain sensitive information from them on the military and its activities.

"An inquiry, which has been promptly ordered, is in progress. Acts of infringements to existing orders especially involving counterintelligence matters, by military officials, are dealt with in the strictest possible manner, as they are subject to Official Secrets Act,"  an official disclosed.

He said that the strictest possible action would be taken against all the officials who are found guilty in the ongoing investigations.

Even though the majority of their attempts fail, they have been able to extract information from some of the military personnel who fall into their trap.

Officials are from time to time asked to follow standard operating procedures and guidelines while using social media to prevent such cases.