Kochi Metro data leak: police probe WhatsApp group, insider role suspected

Kochi Metro Police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the alleged theft and circulation of confidential documents belonging to Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) on social media platforms, officials said on Monday.

The case was registered on September 12 against unidentified persons, following a complaint from KMRL.

According to the FIR, some individuals allegedly gained unauthorised access to computer systems at the KMRL corporate office, located on the fourth floor of the Kaloor JLN Metro Station, with the intention of committing breach of trust and cheating for personal and unlawful financial gain.

The FIR states that the accused committed data theft and hacked the email ID used by the KMRL IT Department for printing official documents. By logging in unlawfully to other desktops and mobile phones, they are alleged to have leaked highly confidential documents, personal information of employees and financial details of the company.

The leaked material was allegedly uploaded and circulated in a WhatsApp group named "Unified Kochi Metro Rail Reform and Development Forum", compromising company security and employee privacy, according to the FIR.

Police said the matter came to light after KMRL found that some of its confidential documents were being circulated in WhatsApp groups. The group was reportedly created to discuss Kochi Metro projects, their operations and development.

Investigators have begun examining the WhatsApp group and will question those operating it. They also suspect the involvement of KMRL insiders, whose role will be established during the probe.

The case has been registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act. Police will seek the assistance of the Cyber Police to investigate the WhatsApp group and trace those responsible.