IT Ministry Urges Social Media Platforms to Address Hoax Bomb Threats to Airlines

In response to a surge in hoax bomb threats targeting airlines, the Indian government has instructed social media intermediaries, including platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Meta, to take immediate action against the dissemination of misinformation that disrupts public order and compromises state security.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology issued an advisory, emphasizing that these hoax threats have caused significant disruptions to airline operations and posed risks to traveler safety. Over 100 such threats have been reported in recent days, resulting in flight delays and emergency landings.

“The Ministry strongly reminds all intermediaries, particularly social media platforms, to make reasonable efforts to prevent the spread of such malicious content, including hoax bomb threats,” the advisory stated.

The ministry highlighted the obligation of these platforms under the IT Rules, 2021, which require them to promptly remove or restrict access to unlawful information, including hoax threats, within specified timelines. Additionally, intermediaries are mandated to report certain offenses under the newly enacted Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS), which includes acts that could threaten India’s unity, integrity, or security.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu expressed serious concern regarding the recent hoax threats, reaffirming the government’s commitment to taking strict action against those responsible. On Friday alone, over 20 flights received bomb threats.

The IT Ministry reiterated the importance of due diligence, urging intermediaries to act swiftly to mitigate the risks posed by such malicious activities.