In recent years, India has witnessed a disturbing rise in cases of espionage linked to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). These cases often involve a technique known as “honey trapping.” The list of prey includes, diplomats and scientists to YouTubers and influencers. Several big names have also fallen prey to this covert tactic.
But at what cost? exposing critical national security information. This also includes the recent arrest of Jyoti Malhotra, a travel vlogger accused of spying for Pakistan. This case has once again highlighted the dangerous and manipulative strategy of honey trapping.
What is Honey Trapping?
Honey trapping is a practice involving the use of romantic or sexual relationships for interpersonal, political (including state espionage), or monetary purposes. The honey pot or trap involves making contact with an individual who has information or resources required by a group or individual; the trapper will then seek to entice the target into a false relationship (which may or may not include actual physical involvement) in which they can glean information or influence over the target.
It typically uses a fabricated romantic relationship or emotional bond with a target, which is then exploited to extract confidential data. The operative often poses as a charming stranger or lover. The person then builds trust with the victim to the point where they are willing, consciously or unconsciously to reveal secrets.
How do Intelligence Agencies Use Honey Trapping?
The strategy of honey trapping is not new, it’s been used for decades. Intelligence agencies around the world, including the ISI, have long employed honey traps. The technique is a subtle yet potent tool in espionage. However these traps are often time consuming. It takes over months, sometimes years, to meticulously orchestrate the plan. The trap is executed via social media platforms, dating platforms, or in some cases face-to-face meetings are conducted.
The operator typically assumes false identity. They then establish relationships by appealing to the emotional vulnerabilities or ambitions of their targets. The process involves flattery, gifts, attention, or even financial incentives. Once the trust is gained, the target is either blackmailed or persuaded into leaking sensitive and confidential data. The victims of honey trapping often do not even realize they are being manipulated until the damage is done.
Notable Cases in India Involving Honey Trapping
Jyoti Malhotra – Travel Vlogger Turned Spy
The recent case of honey trapping occurred in May 2025. Jyoti Malhotra, a 33-year-old YouTuber from Hisar, Haryana, was arrested. The arrest comes for allegedly sharing confidential information with ISI handlers. Further investigations into the matter revealed that she had been honey-trapped by a Pakistani intelligence operative named Danish. Danish was allegedly working at the Pakistani High Commission.
According to reports, Jyoti Malhotra traveled to Pakistan three times in a short span of time. This raised suspicion due to travel expenses that exceeded her known income. The police suspect she was asked to film and promote specific locations. This was to serve ISI interests under the guise of travel vlogging.
Satendra Siwal – Embassy Insider in Moscow
The next case involves Satendra Siwal, employed at the Indian Embassy in Moscow. He was detained by Uttar Pradesh ATS in the year 2024. Siwal was allegedly honey-trapped online by a woman named “Pooja Mehra”. She allegedly persuaded him to leak sensitive military information in exchange for money. Upon investigation, Siwal confessed to sharing critical documents about India’s defense assets. The information about submarines and fighter jets was also leaked.
Pradeep Kurulkar – DRDO Scientist
Pradeep Kurulkar, a director at DRDO’s Pune lab, fell victim to a similar trap in 2023. A woman operative, posing as “Zara Dasgupta,” established contact with him through WhatsApp. Chats recovered from his phone revealed he disclosed vital information about Indian missile systems. He is currently in judicial custody and faces multiple charges under the Official Secrets Act.
Nishant Agrawal – BrahMos Aerospace Engineer
Engineer Nishant Agrawal was arrested for leaking technical data related to the BrahMos missile system. The incident occurred in the year 2018 shook India’s defense sector. Nishant was tricked by two individuals posing as women on social media. Nishannt unknowingly shared critical information that compromised national security. He was later sentenced to life imprisonment in 2024.
Web of Manipulation
According to studies, Honey traps rely on emotional manipulation. Most victims are not hardcore spies but ordinary professionals like scientists, government workers, diplomats, or influencers. They are targeted due to access to sensitive information.
