Use of Internet and social media by non-state actors for subversive activities is a major security concern. How have these been misused in the recent past? Suggest effective guidelines to curb the above threat.

The internet and social media are powerful tools of connectivity, but the same anonymity, reach and speed are exploited by non-state actors — terror outfits, extremists and hostile networks — for subversive ends, making cyberspace a frontier of internal security.

How they are misused

• Radicalisation and recruitment through encrypted platforms and propaganda videos.
• Mobilisation and incitement to violence, riots and mass panic via rumours and doctored content.
• Terror financing, coordination and operational planning using encrypted messaging.
• Disinformation, deepfakes and psychological operations to polarise society.
• Cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure and dark-web arms/drug trade.

Guidelines to curb the threat

• Robust legal framework: enforce the IT Act and IT Rules, and hold intermediaries accountable for prompt takedown and traceability of unlawful content.
• Strengthen cyber institutions: CERT-In, the National Cyber Coordination Centre and I4C, with a dedicated cyber-crime response.
• Counter-radicalisation and counter-narratives online, and digital-literacy campaigns.
• Cooperation with platforms and international agencies on cross-border content and evidence.
• Real-time monitoring balanced with privacy safeguards under the Puttaswamy proportionality test.

The response must balance security with the fundamental right to privacy and free speech — targeted, lawful and proportionate action against misuse, backed by public awareness, rather than blanket surveillance or arbitrary shutdowns.