IAF Officer Arrested on Suspicion of Leaking Classified Data After Alleged Social Media Honey-Trap

An Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander has been arrested on suspicion of leaking sensitive defence information to foreign operatives, allegedly after being honey-trapped through social media. The officer, whose identity has not been disclosed, is currently in judicial custody, according to Delhi Police sources.

Officials said the arrest followed specific inputs shared by the IAF’s intelligence wing with Delhi Police. The officer has been booked under provisions of the Official Secrets Act for allegedly sharing classified information and confidential defence-related documents. The Official Secrets Act, which dates back to 1923, prescribes strict penalties for unauthorised disclosure of state secrets. A detailed investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the alleged breach and whether any other individuals were involved.

In a brief statement, IAF officials said, “He was under active surveillance and was handed over to the suitable law enforcement agencies. Due to proactive measures, he was caught. The IAF has zero tolerance for such activities.”

Sources familiar with the investigation said the officer is accused of falling into a honey trap operated by Pakistani intelligence personnel via social media. He is also alleged to have installed data-stealing software on a colleague’s mobile phone in an attempt to access the device. The exact nature of the data that may have been compromised has not been disclosed.

A honey trap is a deception technique where individuals use fake online profiles to build emotional or romantic connections with targets, eventually coercing them into revealing classified or sensitive information. Security agencies in India have repeatedly warned military personnel and civilians about such tactics, which have become more sophisticated with the proliferation of social media platforms.

This is not the first reported case of its kind. Last year, Rajasthan Police arrested Mangat Singh, a resident of Alwar, for allegedly spying for Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Police said Singh was honey-trapped by a woman using the pseudonym Isha Sharma, who offered him money in exchange for cooperation. Singh reportedly remained in contact with Pakistani handlers through social media for about two years before his arrest. That arrest followed intensified surveillance in Rajasthan during Operation Sindoor.

The latest arrest highlights the persistent threat posed by social media-based espionage networks targeting Indian personnel. Security agencies have stepped up monitoring of online activities and have asked personnel to exercise caution while communicating with unknown individuals. The IAF has stressed that its internal security framework is robust and that vigilance remains a key priority.

Authorities have urged individuals, especially those in sensitive positions, to report any suspicious online contact to security agencies without delay. The investigation into the current case is ongoing, and further details are awaited. The officer is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.