CHANDIGARH: Flagging an increase in “honey-trapping” attempts by Pakistan intelligence operatives (PIOs), the Union ministry of home affairs (MHA) has issued a detailed “standard operating procedure (SOP)” for police personnel on the safe use of social media.The SOP, circulated in Nov 2025 through the Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D), warns that PIOs are using platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram, WhatsApp, Telegram, and LinkedIn to extract sensitive information from targets.It aims to counter “threats to national security and prevent the misuse of social media”. The “SOP” advises police personnel not to reveal their identity as officers online, to avoid posting workplace-related photos or videos, and to refrain from sharing sensitive personal or official details. It specifically warns against establishing links with unknown individuals, including those posing as journalists, researchers, or retired officials-“especially profiles with young, attractive female photographs intended to lure people”.As per the “SOP”, police officials should “control online visibility so that it is limited only to people included in your contact list; use the disappearing messages feature wherever possible; and exercise caution before clicking on links that promise job offers, cash rewards, sponsored trips, or claim to be from govt sources”. Police personnel were instructed not to use social media for official communication, not to accept unverified friend requests, and to avoid linking multiple social media accounts. Clicking unknown links, downloading unverified apps, or sharing documents on messaging platforms was strictly discouraged.In cases where an official is suspected to be compromised, the “SOP” mandates immediate confiscation of digital devices to prevent data deletion, followed by joint interrogation with the Intelligence Bureau. The Counter-Intelligence wing of state police will oversee implementation and coordinate with central agencies.The “SOP” also stresses on strong password practices, 2-factor authentication, minimal app permissions, regular privacy reviews, and heightened online caution. It reminds cops that they are personally responsible for all content they post online and that sharing confidential information may invite disciplinary or criminal action.
