After the successful implementation of MShield 2.0, which has effectively prevented honey trap incidents, the Indian Army reportedly plans to roll out the technology across its entire force.
Designed as a digital watchdog, MShield 2.0 includes robust features to detect covert communication methods often used in espionage, alert soldiers about unverified app downloads or engagement with suspicious contacts, and monitor digital activities to prevent sensitive information leakage.
MShield 2.0 addresses the growing concerns of honeytrap espionage targeting Indian soldiers, Ashok Behuria, a senior fellow at the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA), told Sputnik India.
“Numerous cases have been reported where Indian Army officers and staff have been ensnared by hostile agents, predominantly from Pakistan. There have also been instances involving scientists, technical officers, and even an Army soldier who fell victim to honeytrap schemes during 2022-2023,” Behuria highlighted.
These incidents underscore the urgent need for a strategic technological solution to combat such espionage tactics, he said.
MShield 2.0 is not merely a standalone initiative but part of a broader effort within the Indian Army to enhance cybersecurity, Behuria noted.
“The establishment of the Defence Cyber Agency [DCA], tasked with mitigating cyber threats, and the Army Cyber Command [ACC], responsible for protecting military communication systems, are critical components of this strategy. The Army also invests in training programmes to ensure its soldiers are well-equipped to handle emerging cyber threats,” the expert elaborated.
By integrating MShield 2.0 into their broader strategy, the Indian Army aims to strengthen its cybersecurity posture and ensure the safety of its personnel in the digital age, he explained.
As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, technologies like MShield 2.0 are expected to significantly enhance the capabilities of military and intelligence organisations in countering these challenges.
“With the growing use of mobile devices and the Internet of Things (IoT), technologies like MShield 2.0 will be crucial in safeguarding sensitive information and preventing espionage. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning will enable quicker identification of patterns, predicting potential threats before they materialise,” Behuria concluded.