Fake bomb alerts surge in Kerala: Over 100 threats, no lead

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Frequent fake bomb threats have become a major challenge for the state. The threats mostly arrive through unidentified e-mails. More than 100 bomb threats have been reported in the last two months alone. Fake threats have targeted places such as the Secretariat, Raj Bhavan, Cliff House, airports, railway stations, courts, temples, universities, and five-star hotels.

An e-mail threat was also received against the military base in Kannur. Except for a possible link to Tamil Nadu, the source remains unknown. With the Prime Minister and military chiefs scheduled to visit Thiruvananthapuram on December 4 for Navy Day celebrations, the police and central agencies are on high alert. In Tamil Nadu, over 200 similar cases have been reported in the past two months. Police suspect that these threats may be part of a planned effort to study their response procedures and identify security loopholes.

Whenever a threat is received, standard protocols are followed, including searches by bomb and dog squads. However, no explosives have been found so far. Despite repeated requests, Microsoft has not shared details about the email origins linked to the threats in Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam. Authorities are also concerned about reports that the ISI, with Chinese backing, has increased its operations in Sri Lanka, just 380.19 km away.

How the threats are sent

• The e-mails are sent using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), which hide the sender’s IP address and computer information.
• Microsoft’s response indicates that the senders use Tor internet services, which conceal the user’s location and personal details.
• Because of this, police cannot trace the sender’s IP address or location.
• The messages are transmitted through multiple layers of encryption, with data automatically deleted at each stage.

Police under pressure Each time a bomb threat is reported, police must conduct thorough checks. Skipping the search is not an option under the protocol. Frequent fake threats are wasting significant time and resources.

Microsoft has also informed that Tor does not store user data. If the company continues to withhold information, it could face legal action. Similar threats are being reported from across the country. - Thomson Jose, Thiruvananthapuram City Police Commissioner