In recent days, Indian authorities have faced a serious security challenge as multiple bomb threats were reported for various flights. This wave of threats targeted over 20 flights from Indian carriers, both domestic and international, and sent shockwaves through the airplane sector. The threats, which originated on social media, requested immediate investigations by central intelligence agencies.
The bad news is there was a bomb threat on an Air India flight and an emergency landing. So our plane is delayed. The good news is everyone is OK, they brought in a wonderful Inuit accordion player to help everyone’s spirits, and we are an extra few hours in wonderful Iqaluit. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/zyYdqcA33j
— Robin Debreuil (@debreuil) October 15, 2024
On Monday, three international flights of Indian airlines received bomb threats, followed by another 10 flights on Tuesday. The situation increased, with at least six more threats reported the following day. Fortunately, after thorough security checks and assessments, all threats were determined to be fake, and no actual danger was posed to passengers or crew.
Intelligence agencies have worked quickly to trace the origins of these threatening messages. The Initial reports indicate that posts were made from three separate social media accounts. Investigators have successfully traced two of these accounts to specific IP addresses located in London and Germany. The users behind these posts attempted to hide their identities by utilizing a virtual private network (VPN), which encrypts their online activities and masks their true locations.
Amid hoax bomb scare in flights, #Aviation security body swings into action
— Mirror Now (@MirrorNow) October 16, 2024
Times Network's @pragyakaushika speaks to MoS Civil Aviation @mohol_murlidhar pic.twitter.com/IJXdUevaqY
VPNs are often used for proper purposes, such as protecting personal information and ensuring online privacy. However, they can also be misused by individuals wishing to engage in illegal activities, like making threats without being easily identified. As agencies continue to investigate, they are working to uncover the identities of those responsible for these alarming messages.
The increase in bomb threats has raised concerns about security protocols in the airplane sector. Authorities are urging airlines and passengers to remain alert. While the threats have been confirmed as frauds, they highlight the need for ongoing security measures and quick responses to ensure passenger safety.
Hoax bomb threat calls ground 5 Indian flights within span of hours
— IndiaToday (@IndiaToday) October 15, 2024
Read: https://t.co/5nmJ5bdiZ0#BombThreat #ITCard pic.twitter.com/M8pGDte3CT
As the investigation progresses, officials remain focused on preventing such incidents from occurring in the future. The use of advanced technologies and collaboration between international intelligence agencies will be crucial in addressing these types of threats effectively.
This situation serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by security agencies in the digital age, where threats can be communicated rapidly and anonymously. As authorities continue their efforts to trace the sources of these threats, the safety of passengers and the integrity of the airline system remain a top priority.