Central Agencies Trace Indian Flights' Hoax Bomb Threats To UK, Germany IP Addresses

Days after multiple bomb threats to flights were received via social media, Central intelligence agencies have traced the IP addresses behind the threats to London and Germany, The Indian Express reported.

Over 20 flights operated by Indian carriers, both domestic and international, have faced bomb threats this week.

Photo Credit: PTI

On Monday, three international flights of Indian carriers were targeted, followed by 10 more flights on Tuesday.

The day after, at least six more threats were reported. These threats were issued through social media platforms, and after security checks, they were all deemed to be hoaxes.

As Central intelligence agencies began their investigation, they first requested X to provide the IP addresses from which these posts originated. They also requested that all the accounts responsible be deactivated, according to a source.

"We have received the preliminary reports, and they have confirmed that the posts were made from three separate handles. Of these, they traced two IP addresses-both common IPs from London and Germany.

The users tweeted after utilising a virtual private network (VPN), which is an encrypted connection over the internet aimed at masking one's online identity. We are still awaiting details regarding the third handle," a source revealed.

Following the initial responses, Central intelligence agencies have requested X for more specific information and are currently awaiting further details, the source added.

"This month, the IGI Airport Police responded to seven incidents involving bomb threats. After thorough verification and inspections, all threats were found to be hoaxes. Legal action has been initiated against those responsible for these false alarms to ensure strict measures are in place to prevent misuse and maintain the safety and security of passengers and airport operations," stated Usha Rangnani, Deputy Commissioner of Police (IGI Airport).

"An FIR has been lodged under sections 217 and 351 (4) of the BNS, along with section 3 (1) (d) of the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against Safety of Civil Aviation Act, 1982, in relation to the recent hoax bomb threat concerning an Akasa Air flight. A detailed investigation is underway, and after coordination with the relevant social media platform, all accounts responsible for these false threats have been suspended to prevent further misuse and ensure public safety," Rangnani added.

In the meantime, senior officials at the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) have stated that they are considering measures to tighten regulations, which would enable harsher penalties for those behind such threats-potentially including placing them on the no-fly list for Indian carriers.

The Centre is also liaising with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and the Law Ministry, while reviewing anti-hoax legislation in other countries.