A student who failed to secure admission to the BTech Cyber Security programme at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur hacked the institute’s website and posted a message asking for a fair chance. Instead of filing a police complaint, the institute chose to consider the student for an internship at its cybersecurity centre.
Director Manindra Agrawal explained that the admissions cycle had closed and legal procedures applied, yet officials wanted to avoid harming the student’s prospects. The student may receive an internship and can apply again next year. Multiple opportunities to demonstrate skills, including hackathons, had already been provided during the selection process.
The student shared details of the breach on social media, stating there was no intent to damage systems but only to highlight abilities. Institute officials initially considered legal action but later decided to support talent while stressing that unauthorised access remains unacceptable. The centre welcomes qualified cybersecurity applicants to submit resumes for internships or jobs through proper channels. The case has raised questions about how institutions should handle exceptional technical skills alongside cybersecurity regulations.
