Influencer Turned Spy: Jyoti Malhotra’s Shocking Arrest for Espionage

Jyoti Malhotra, a 34-year-old travel vlogger from Haryana, was arrested on May 16, 2025, in Hisar for allegedly spying for Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Known for her popular YouTube channel “Travel with Jo,” Malhotra reportedly used her online presence to mask her espionage activities. Investigations revealed that she maintained contact with Pakistani handlers even during sensitive security operations, including recent blackouts in northern India. Her arrest was part of Operation Sindoor, a broader investigation targeting individuals suspected of compromising national security .

Authorities are scrutinizing Malhotra’s frequent visits over the past two to three years to key pilgrimage sites in Uttar Pradesh, including Varanasi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Vrindavan. Her online content, especially videos on her YouTube channel, is being reviewed for clues about her activities and possible contacts during these trips . Additionally, images surfaced online showing her with a man who delivered a cake to the Pakistan High Commission in Delhi shortly after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, raising suspicions about her possible involvement or connections linked to the incident .

Following Malhotra’s arrest, netizens have started examining her known associates, sparking speculation about other influencers such as Navankur Chaudhary (Yatri Doctor), Deepanshu Sangwan (nomadic.Indian), Priyankaa Senapati, and Travel Soumit Bhattacharya. While these influencers have not been formally charged, their travel histories and content have faced public scrutiny. Some have issued statements distancing themselves from Malhotra, asserting their nationalism and willingness to cooperate with investigations .

The case underscores the evolving tactics of espionage, where individuals with significant social media influence are allegedly being targeted or utilized for intelligence gathering. It also highlights the challenges authorities face in monitoring and securing information in the digital age, where personal and professional boundaries often blur. As the investigation continues, it serves as a cautionary tale for influencers and the broader public about the potential risks associated with online interactions and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding national security.