Amid the ongoing Operation Sindoor, Indian authorities have flagged a new method reportedly being used by Pakistan’s Intelligence Operatives (PIO) to extract sensitive details. The operatives are allegedly calling Indian civilians and journalists using an Indian WhatsApp number +91 7340921702, pretending to be Indian defence officials.
These calls, according to officials, are designed to gather classified information, particularly regarding Operation Sindoor and the impact of Pakistan’s recent strike on Indian military bases. Authorities confirmed that the PIOs pose as representatives from high-ranking defence offices and are targeting individuals for press briefings allegedly in New Delhi.
MoD Issues Warning
Indian officials have sounded the alarm, urging people to steer clear of such fraudulent calls. In an official alert, they stated: “Indian WhatsApp No: 7340921702 is being used by Pakistani Intelligence Operatives (PIO), pretending as Indian Defence Officials, to call Journalists and Civilians to acquire information on the ongoing situation while ‘Operation Sindoor’ is in progress. Please DO NOT fall for such attempts.”
Journalists Targeted, Calls Go Unanswered
Asianet News English reported that some of its journalists were among those contacted. The callers falsely claimed to represent the Chief of Defence Staff’s office. Fortunately, the calls remained unanswered.
MoD Urges Public to Avoid Fake News
With tensions rising after the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians in Kashmir, the Ministry of Defence has cautioned citizens about the spread of fake news on WhatsApp.
In a post on X, the MoD said: “In these sensitive times, a lot of misinformation and fake news is being spread on WhatsApp. Be cautious and follow our WhatsApp Channel for all authentic information related to Ministry of Defence.”
The Ministry has asked the public to rely only on official channels for updates on defence matters, especially during this critical phase of Operation Sindoor.
