Waseem Raza Khan@Headline Post
A disturbing pattern is emerging in India’s national security landscape: the exploitation of social media and honey traps by Pakistan to fuel espionage and terrorism. Following Operation Sindoor, over a dozen spies have been apprehended from states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, underscoring how some individuals are willing to betray their nation for sex, money, and fame.
The arrest of YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra on charges of espionage is the latest example, sparking widespread outrage and evoking historical memories of betrayal akin to that of Jaychand. Authorities suspect she may be connected to a larger “sleeper module” network that operates silently but steadily, supplying sensitive information to Pakistan both directly and indirectly.
The Role of Social Media in Modern Espionage
The misuse of social media platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and others has become a powerful tool in the hands of adversarial forces. In Jyoti’s case, it was the very medium that helped her gain attention — and also revealed her actions. Reports indicate that she leveraged these platforms to aid Pakistan’s agenda of destabilization beyond conventional warfare.
It is becoming increasingly clear that Pakistani intelligence agencies like ISI are now investing heavily in psychological and digital warfare, spreading propaganda, and encouraging Indian citizens to share sensitive military information, whether knowingly or unknowingly. From recording and uploading military movement videos to spreading fake news — such as rumors of a planned attack on the Taj Mahal — these tactics are aimed at sowing fear and confusion.
Is This a Widespread Chain Network?
The Indian government has cautioned citizens repeatedly to refrain from engaging in or promoting activities that could compromise national security. Despite bans on several Pakistani platforms that were inciting hate against India, social media addicts continue to access and disseminate anti-India content. This raises serious concerns about how these banned materials still find their way into Indian digital spaces, and why individuals involved in such acts manage to amass large followings online.
Jyoti Malhotra’s arrest has opened the door to further investigations into her contacts and associates, who are now under suspicion. Experts fear this could be part of a larger chain system designed to penetrate multiple regions of the country simultaneously.
A Shift Beyond Traditional Honey Traps
Historically, honey traps were a known espionage tactic targeting Indian defense personnel and officials. However, recent developments suggest that social media may now be functioning as a digital honey trap, luring impressionable users with fame, validation, and monetary incentives, only to manipulate them into serving hostile interests.
The solution, experts believe, lies in awareness and vigilance. Citizens must choose paths that steer clear of anti-national activities, understanding that even a single post or message online can have far-reaching consequences. Staying away from such traps is not just about personal safety — it is a powerful act of patriotism and resistance against enemy propaganda.
