In a nationwide alert, the Ministry of Education has warned students and higher education institutions (HEIs) across India about attempts by foreign entities to collect sensitive information related to national security. The University Grants Commission (UGC) issued the alert on January 22, 2026, cautioning institutions about these entities targeting individuals, particularly those with backgrounds in journalism, defence, and strategic studies, through job portals like LinkedIn and Naukri.com.

The advisory reveals that these foreign entities approach candidates under the guise of freelance or consultancy work, assigning them tasks that involve writing source-based articles on strategically sensitive subjects. These subjects include India's foreign relations, troop deployments, weapon systems, defence procurements, joint military exercises, and war-related activities.

The UGC has noted that payments for these assignments are often routed through Indian bank accounts, including student accounts, or through overseas transfers. In some instances, the funds used may originate from cyber fraud to obscure the source of the money. These entities typically conceal their true identities, presenting themselves as representatives of consulting firms operating from foreign countries.

The collection of sensitive personal documents, such as PAN and Aadhaar cards, from applicants with defence-related experience via Indian intermediaries is a particular concern. The UGC has emphasized that the implications of such data collection are "unknown and potentially serious".

The UGC has directed all universities and HEIs to remain vigilant and closely monitor such activities. Institutions are instructed to disseminate this information widely among students, faculty, and researchers to increase awareness. This heightened vigilance aims to protect sensitive national security information and prevent individuals from being unwittingly involved in activities detrimental to India's interests.