Key Highlights
- A significant increase has been noted by Indian security forces in ISKP propaganda targeted directly at India.
- There has been an escalation in fundraising through “sadaqat” and the use of cryptocurrencies to transfer funds.
- Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan have allowed ISKP to regroup and extend its reach.
Security agencies in India have raised red flags regarding the sudden upsurge in the activities of the Islamic State Khorasan Province’s (ISKP) media cell. There has been an evident change in the focus of their propaganda efforts from other parts of the world towards India.
According to an IANS report, Intelligence Bureau officials stated that while propaganda efforts targeting Europe and America continue to call for large-scale attacks during international sporting events like the FIFA World Cup, messaging directed at India specifically demands operatives to conduct major attacks on crowded civilian sites.
Simultaneously, the group has increased efforts to raise funds for its Afghanistan-based operations. Reports indicate a growing number of fundraising calls in recent weeks, with momentum building this month. The group appears to be raising funds under the name of “sadaqat” (charity), often using cryptocurrencies.
Targeting India and regional opportunity
Amid the current strained relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan, ISKP sees an opportunity to leverage the situation. In the past, consistent pressure from the Taliban had restricted their operations. However, changing dynamics in the region provide room for the ISKP to reorganize and restore its connections.
This urgency has led to an increased push for fundraising. Indian intelligence agencies believe that the ISKP understands that its favorable circumstances in Afghanistan will not prevail for long, prompting it to capitalize on them.
A notable element of this propaganda is the narrative around establishing a “Caliphate in India,” with Jammu and Kashmir as its center. Some individuals have reportedly been influenced by such messaging. To expand its reach, the group has increased activity across various social media platforms.
Even though false stories are being circulated via open communication networks, all requests for attacks or funding are being made using encrypted communications, mainly using cryptocurrencies. The Al-Azaim Foundation for Media Production is being carefully monitored by the intelligence agencies, as it is one of the most important sources in this connection.
Rising crypto-related scams in India
This development comes as a major cryptocurrency investment fraud case came to light in Yamunanagar, Haryana. As per reports, around 45 investors fell into a trap set by a fraudulent company called “BFX Pro,” losing nearly ₹6.82 crore.
The accused allegedly promised monthly returns of 8–10 percent, claiming the company was government-registered and operated on an international platform. To build trust, victims were taken on luxury trips to destinations such as Bangkok, Dubai, and Jim Corbett and were encouraged to lock in larger sums for higher returns.
The accused include Priyashu Dutta, Ramesh Dutta, and eight others. The police investigation is still ongoing, and there were two groups of victims whose total loss comes to nearly ₹6.82 crore. Victims had reportedly lost all their life savings and even jewelry, and taken loans in some cases.
Use of AI messaging
The use of AI has enabled messaging through fabricated video content. There have been instances where common places in India were shown as scenes of communal violence against minorities in India. Authorities think that these videos are intended to create chaos.
Recent content features more aggressive language and appears to be specifically targeted at Indian audiences.
Security authorities in India are keeping an eye on all these activities. Through the coordination of propaganda and fundraising efforts, the ISKP’s digital methods have evolved, capitalizing on the political turmoil, technology, and cryptocurrency.
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