- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:26 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In a major push to enhance security, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a nationwide alert to police forces following a reported spike in “honey-trapping” attempts allegedly linked to Pakistani intelligence operatives. As per the officials, security personnel are being targeted through fake social media profiles aimed at extracting sensitive and classified information.
According to a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) circulated in November 2025 through the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), foreign operatives are using platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram, WhatsApp, Telegram and LinkedIn to approach police and security officials. Many of these profiles reportedly pose as journalists, researchers, defence analysts or retired officers, often using photographs of young women to build rapport and initiate personal conversations.
Authorities believe the objective is to gradually gain trust and solicit confidential operational details, classified documents or access to official systems.
The SOP directs police personnel to refrain from disclosing their official designation on social media, avoid accepting requests from unknown individuals, and not use personal social media accounts for official communication.
Officers have also been advised to enable two-factor authentication, use strong passwords, regularly review privacy settings, and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unverified applications. The ministry has cautioned that sharing confidential information online, even inadvertently, may invite disciplinary proceedings or criminal charges.
In cases where an officer is suspected of being compromised, the SOP mandates immediate seizure of digital devices to prevent deletion or tampering of data. The matter would then be investigated in coordination with the Intelligence Bureau. State police counter-intelligence units have been asked to monitor compliance and maintain coordination with central agencies.
Security agencies view honey-trapping as part of a wider hybrid warfare strategy. In recent years, several cases have surfaced involving defence personnel allegedly being lured online.
In 2018, an engineer associated with BrahMos Aerospace was arrested for allegedly sharing technical information with a Pakistani operative using fake identities. In 2020, multiple personnel of the Indian Navy were arrested in a similar espionage case linked to social media interactions. Reports in early 2026 suggest such attempts continue, including a recent alleged case in Rajasthan involving the sharing of sensitive images.
Investigators say tactics often include creating fake profiles, deploying malware such as GravityRAT to access devices, targeting vulnerable individuals, and resorting to blackmail using compromising chats or images.
In response, security forces have tightened social media regulations, restricted smartphone use in sensitive installations and intensified digital awareness campaigns. Intelligence units are also increasing scrutiny of digital footprints, and strict penalties for violations.