Delhi Police ramp up social media surveillance ahead of BRICS summit

Delhi Police have established comprehensive digital surveillance operations to secure the capital ahead of the BRICS 2026 summit, with the Social Media Cell and Internet Forensics and Social media Operations (IFSO) conducting 24-hour monitoring of online platforms. The dual-pronged approach focuses on identifying potential security threats and combating misinformation that could undermine preparations or disrupt the event, officials said.

The specialized units are systematically flagging suspicious accounts and tracing digital trails across social media networks to map potential threat networks. Officers are analyzing keyword patterns and online behavior to identify coordinated inauthentic activity, malicious narratives, and content designed to incite unrest during the summit period.

The monitoring operation represents a significant expansion of Delhi Police's digital intelligence capabilities, reflecting growing concerns about security challenges posed by coordinated online campaigns during major international events. Officials emphasized that the initiative balances security imperatives with digital rights, focusing on identified threats rather than blanket surveillance of all platforms.

The BRICS summit, which brings together leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, carries substantial security demands. The intensified social media monitoring is part of broader multi-agency preparations to ensure the event proceeds safely while maintaining public confidence in India's capacity to host international gatherings.