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The National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India is subjected to nearly 150 to 170 million cyberattacks daily. According to high-ranking officials, the attacks vary from phishing attempts to massive distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) strikes aimed at disrupting operations.
The exchange experienced the unparalleled 400 million attacks in one day during the recent cyber exercise named Operation Sindoor, the maximum ever documented.
Operation Sindoor was a DDoS attack simulation that tested the NSE’s ability to cope with large-scale digital threats. Even with the high traffic coming in, the hackers could not penetrate or disrupt the operations.
The NSE’s two cyber defense centers, equipped with advanced monitoring tools and automated systems, collaborated around the clock to spot, trap, and eliminate every intrusion attempt. According to the safety measures, the exchange has blocked foreign website access as a safety precaution during the operation.
The NSE's defense strategy strongly relies on a combination of technology, people, and processes. It uses advanced cybersecurity frameworks, backed by Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, and human monitoring.
The trading members and staff are subjected to regular Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) to find and rectify weak points. The exchange’s backup and recovery systems operate 24/7, guaranteeing business continuity even during severe attacks.
Experts note that increasing digital interconnection and complex market systems have made cyberattacks more sophisticated and frequent. Any breach could impact the exchange’s systems and connected financial institutions, increasing the potential damage, as highlighted by the NSE leadership.
During Operation Sindoor, a mere 150 of more than 15 lakh attacks on Indian infrastructure were successful, a 0.01% success rate, demonstrating the power of robust protective measures.
The increase in NSE cyberattacks during Operation Sindoor highlights the need to continuously innovate cybersecurity measures for India's financial markets. The NSE’s preparedness and real-time response demonstrate how layered security, constant vigilance, and human expertise can protect national financial infrastructure.
Industry experts believe that some financial institutions will be able to keep their clients' trust and the safety of their operations. This can only be achieved if they are willing to invest in defensive measures that are both proactive and progressive, as global cyber threats continue to evolve.
