Lucknow: India’s cybersecurity ecosystem has once again been jolted after a newly-created website, LeakData.org, began publicly displaying sensitive personal information linked to the mobile numbers and email IDs of Indian users. The development has intensified concerns over digital privacy at a time when the country is still recovering from a similar disclosure by another platform just days ago.
Second Breach Within Days Raises Alarms
Recently, a site called Proxy Earth had exposed personal data belonging to thousands of Indians, sparking nationwide debate over digital safety and the vulnerability of public databases. Government agencies rushed to block the website’s access, even as the platform attempted to shift toward an app-based system that eventually served no purpose other than hosting gaming downloads.
Before the dust could settle, LeakData.org surfaced—sending shockwaves through cybersecurity circles by offering detailed personal information such as mobile numbers, alternate contacts, email IDs, residential addresses, and even Aadhaar numbers. The platform claims to allow anyone to view data connected to 12 random mobile numbers at a time.
A Newly Created Platform With Rapid Activity
Investigators were surprised to find that the website was created only in December. On December 8, the operators also launched a Telegram group, which has already drawn around 300 members.
LeakData.org has additionally released its own mobile application, making the leaked information accessible through multiple platforms.
While the site does not display data for all numbers, the presence of any verified personal information in an open and browseable format is being viewed as a serious lapse with potentially dangerous implications.
Experts Warn of Growing Cybercrime Threat
Dr. Digvijay Singh Rathore, Nodal Officer of the Cyber Club at Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University, cautioned that such disclosures could become powerful weapons in the hands of cybercriminals.
“If the personal data of ordinary citizens keeps becoming publicly accessible, it will fuel financial fraud, phishing, identity theft and other targeted cyberattacks,” he said. “Basic personal information is the first building block for many high-level cybercrimes.”
Government Agencies on High Alert
Several central agencies have begun investigating the source of the leak and exploring ways to block or restrict access to such platforms. However, officials admit that the emergence of new websites immediately after one is shut down has become a recurring and complex challenge.
Cybersecurity analysts warn that the situation is serious and that the misuse of exposed data could escalate in the coming weeks if not contained swiftly.
This latest incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for strong, enforceable data-protection mechanisms in India.
LeakData.org Introduces ‘Hide My Data’ Feature Amid Controversy
Amid rising scrutiny, LeakData.org has announced a new feature called “Hide My Data”, positioned as a user-driven privacy safeguard.
How the Feature Works
1. Instant Action
A user can enter their mobile number or email ID into the Hide My Data form, after which the platform claims to instantly add it to its “Do Not Display” registry. The information is immediately removed from public search results.
2. No Verification Required
The website states that users will not be asked to prove that the number or email belongs to them. If someone requests removal, the platform reportedly processes it without asking for identity documentation.
3. Permanent & Encrypted
LeakData.org asserts that every request is stored in an encrypted database, ensuring that the hidden information remains inaccessible in future searches.
Confirmation Message
Upon submitting the request, users receive the following notification:
“Request Submitted!
Your mobile number has been added to our Do Not Display registry. It will be hidden from search results immediately.”
While the feature appears to offer relief to concerned users, cybersecurity experts argue that the existence of such a site in itself reflects a deeper systemic weakness—where sensitive data is repeatedly surfacing without consent or accountability.
As authorities intensify efforts to track the origin of the leak and take preventive measures, the episode stands as another stark reminder of India’s growing exposure to digital vulnerabilities and the urgent need to fortify its cyber-defence framework.
