Pakistan-linked honey-trapping networks are allegedly targeting young Agniveers posted at sensitive locations, with central intelligence and law enforcement agencies examining several cases involving suspicious social-media interactions and possible attempts to obtain sensitive information.
Sources said a number of personnel have been identified and placed under scrutiny. Investigators are examining their social-media activity, digital accounts, online conversations and financial transactions to determine whether sensitive information was shared and whether any offence was committed.
Fake profiles allegedly used to gain trust
According to sources, the suspected modus operandi involves fake female profiles on social-media platforms. The accounts allegedly establish contact with young personnel before gradually building familiarity through regular conversations.
Once trust develops, targets may be encouraged to share photographs, personal details and information connected with their work. Investigators are examining the nature and duration of these conversations and the circumstances in which contact was established.
In some cases, conversations allegedly progressed to questions about deployment areas, locations, movements and other details that could be of interest to an intelligence network.
Financial transactions also under scrutiny
Investigators are also examining whether monetary inducements were offered to personnel. Sources said financial transfers have been traced in some cases, although the nature, amount and purpose of the transactions varied.
The agencies are analysing the financial trail alongside digital communications to establish whether payments were linked to alleged information-gathering activities.
Agencies assess each case separately
Sources said a list of identified cases has been prepared and is being examined on the basis of digital evidence, communication records and financial transactions.
Officials are also determining whether personnel were merely approached by suspicious accounts or knowingly shared sensitive information. Legal action is expected in cases where evidence establishes that restricted information was deliberately disclosed or another offence was committed.
Social media poses a growing security challenge
The investigation highlights the counter-intelligence risks created by online platforms, where identities can be concealed and personal relationships established without physical contact.
Authorities are also examining whether multiple suspicious accounts are connected to common handlers or networks and whether similar approaches have been made to other personnel posted at sensitive locations.