Hyderabad: IIT Kanpur offered an IIT Kanpur internship to a student who hacked the institute’s website after failing to secure admission to its B.Tech cybersecurity programme. Director Manindra Agarwal said the institute decided against filing a cybercrime case and instead gave the student an opportunity to demonstrate his skills.
Agarwal said the student will intern at IIT Kanpur’s C3i Hub. He added that the institute considered the student’s future before taking the decision.
The director also said the student could apply for admission again next year. However, he made it clear that hacking systems is unacceptable and should never become a way to showcase technical ability.
Director explains IIT Kanpur internship decision
Initially, the institute considered registering a cybercrime case against the student. Later, the management changed its approach after reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Meanwhile, Agarwal urged aspiring cybersecurity professionals to use their skills responsibly. Furthermore, he advised students to follow legal and ethical practices while pursuing opportunities in the field.
The incident has drawn attention because the institute chose rehabilitation over prosecution. Consequently, the decision has sparked discussion about recognising talent while reinforcing responsible cybersecurity practices.