What is Threema, messaging app used in Delhi blast plot?
What's the story
The recent car explosion near Delhi's Red Fort has taken a digital twist. Investigators have traced the communication of three doctors, allegedly involved in the plot, to a Swiss messaging app called Threema. The suspects, Dr Umar Un Nabi, Dr Muzammil Ganaie, and Dr Shaheen Shahid, reportedly used the encrypted platform for planning and coordinating their conspiracy.
Encryption advantage
Threema's anonymity aids suspects in evading detection
Threema's design offers a high level of anonymity, making it difficult for authorities to trace users. The app doesn't require conventional identifiers like phone numbers or email IDs; instead, users are assigned randomly generated IDs. This feature helped the suspects remain undetected while planning their attack. Investigators believe they may have set up a private Threema server for secure communication and file exchange.
Forensic challenge
Threema's encryption complicates investigation
Threema's end-to-end encryption and metadata avoidance make it difficult for forensic teams to reconstruct conversations. Authorities are now investigating whether the group's Threema server was hosted in India or abroad. The ongoing forensic analysis aims to uncover the full extent of this network and any additional individuals involved in the plot.
App ban
Threema banned in India since May 2023
Threema has been banned in India since May 2023, as the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology blocked several foreign messaging apps under Section 69A of the IT Act. These platforms were found to be used by Pakistan-based groups for propaganda and coordination with operatives inside India. Despite the ban, authorities suspect the accused may have bypassed restrictions using VPN services or accessed it abroad.
Payment hurdles
Threema's payment model adds to investigation challenges
Threema's payment model further complicates the investigation, as it allows users to buy the app by mailing cash or paying via Bitcoin. This setup leaves no traceable transaction record, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies worldwide. The combination of anonymity, encrypted communication, and decentralized payment has made Threema a popular choice among those seeking secrecy.