After cyber-attack, Bengaluru water board mulls blockchain technology to enhance digital security

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After a cyber-attack on Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board’s (BWSSB) online water connection portal, the board is now evaluating the implementation of blockchain technology to enhance digital security.

BWSSB chairman Ram Prasath Manohar said, “An attempted cyber-attack on the BWSSB online water connection portal was successfully foiled earlier this month. Initial investigations have confirmed that no sensitive customer data was compromised. A formal complaint has been registered with the cyber-crime police station for further investigation.”

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Manohar explained that the attack occurred on the morning of April 11, targeting BWSSB’s online portal for water connection applications. “After receiving an alert from CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), BWSSB’s technical team quickly contained the breach attempt” he said.

“The customer data of BWSSB is securely stored in the State Data Centre managed by the Government of Karnataka. The attempted breach focused on the portal linked to connection applications, which contained limited and recent applicant data. Preliminary analysis confirms that while a small portion of data was accessed, no sensitive or confidential customer information was leaked.” he said.

“As a precautionary step, all relevant data from the affected portal has been transferred to more secure centralised servers. BWSSB is actively evaluating the implementation of blockchain technology to enhance digital security. Recognised for its transparency, immutability, and resistance to tampering, blockchain is being considered as a long-term solution to fortify the Board’s digital infrastructure.”

“A comprehensive investigation is underway, and stringent legal action will be initiated against those involved in any attempted data theft or misuse. We are continuously upgrading its digital systems to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of public services,” he said.

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Experts say blockchain can strengthen cybersecurity through decentralization and tamper-proof records, but it must be paired with other safeguards due to its own vulnerabilities.