India Probes VPN Use In Bomb Hoax Calls, Plans No-Fly List For Offenders

Over 20 bomb threats in just four days have sent shockwaves through Indian aviation, with authorities struggling to identify the culprits behind the hoax calls. Central agencies are now planning to approach VPN service providers to trace the origin of these threats, as several calls were routed through VPNs, complicating the investigation process. Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu has downplayed the possibility of a larger conspiracy, suggesting the calls might be pranks by minors. However, the government is actively considering new measures, including legislation to penalize hoax callers and placing them on a no-fly list. On October 17, five Air India and one Indigo flight were targeted, following several similar threats on previous days. Notably, three international flights—Air India’s Mumbai-London, Indigo’s Istanbul-Mumbai, and Vistara’s Frankfurt-Mumbai—were among those impacted. In response to the surge in threats, the aviation ministry is reviewing global models to better address the situation and prevent further disruptions.