Explained: How TRF terrorists used Chinese tech to contact Pakistan handlers and avoid detection | Pahalgam terror attack

Days after the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, it has been revealed that The Resistance Front operatives used Chinese technology to evade the radar of Indian intelligence agencies, according to a report.

The Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy TRF used Chinese messaging apps and devices to contact their handlers in Pakistan, CNN-News18 quoted sources as saying.

These apps used by the terrorists have been banned in India since 2020 following the Galwan clashes with China. Indian intelligence agencies have traced a Chinese satellite phone near Pahalgam on the same day of the attack, the outlet added.

The report said that Pakistan-based terror outfits have been equipped with military-grade devices that can evade the lens of security forces. One of the technologies used by the terrorists includes end-to-end encryption that cannot be decoded by a third party. They also make use of quantum-resistant algorithms that cannot be deciphered by quantum computers and steganography that helps conceal image and video files.

The fresh revelation comes as Beijing supported its all-weather friend Islamabad in safeguarding its sovereignty. Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restrain amid the rising tensions following Pahalgam horror.

During a phone call with Pakistani foreign minister Ishaq Dar, Yi said Beijing is closely monitoring the situation and supports an "impartial investigation". He added that China has always backed Pakistan in its resolute anti-terrorism actions.

China's support for Pakistan comes amid India's decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 and closure of the Attari border.  

India