Pakistan-based operatives using romance scams to target Indians: J&K police

Police in Jammu and Kashmir have warned residents about organized efforts by Pakistan-based operatives to establish intimate relationships with Indian citizens for the purpose of extracting classified or sensitive information. The scheme, which exploits emotional connections to lower victims' guard, represents a growing security concern in the region.

According to local law enforcement officials, the operatives typically initiate contact through phone calls from unidentified numbers, with initial interactions designed to build rapport and trust. Once a relationship is established, targets are systematically manipulated to divulge confidential details that could compromise national security or personal safety.

The police department has issued a public advisory recommending citizens exercise extreme caution when approached by strangers, particularly through unsolicited calls or digital communications. Officials specifically flagged phone contact from unknown numbers as a common entry point for such operations.

Authorities have urged residents to verify the identity of callers, avoid sharing personal or sensitive information with unverified individuals, and report suspicious contact to local law enforcement immediately. The advisory comes as concerns mount over transnational intelligence-gathering operations targeting the sensitive border region.