The government has launched an investigation into a data breach at Tata Electronics that reportedly exposed sensitive documents related to Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models, marking the first official confirmation of the probe by Indian authorities.
S Krishnan, Secretary at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, said on Thursday that the incident is under investigation and has been reported to the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), the country’s nodal cybersecurity agency.
According to reports, a ransomware group accessed and published confidential files on the dark web after targeting Tata Electronics, a key supplier in Apple’s global manufacturing ecosystem. The leaked information reportedly includes component lists, supplier details, and images of iPhone 18 Pro models, which Apple has not yet officially announced.
The breach raises concerns over the security of highly sensitive data in global supply chains, particularly in the production of flagship devices like the iPhone, which relies on a complex network of international suppliers.
Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September. The leaked material reportedly includes at least six files identifying companies involved in manufacturing specific components for the device, information that is not publicly disclosed by Apple.
Tata Electronics has engaged a global cybersecurity consultant to conduct a forensic audit into the breach. Reports also suggest that data related to other global technology firms, including Tesla, Qualcomm, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), may have been affected.
The incident highlights growing cybersecurity risks facing global electronics manufacturing and supply chain ecosystems.