INTRODUCTION:
HIV spreads mainly through unprotected sex, sharing infected needles, transfusion of contaminated blood, and from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. Among various population groups, men who have sex with men (MSM) are considered at higher risk for HIV transmission. Digital platforms have become major meeting points for MSM community, creating both risks and opportunities for HIV prevention. Understanding the characteristics, behaviours, and service access of MSM in virtual spaces is crucial for strengthening targeted interventions.

METHODS:
A cross-sectional virtual mapping study was conducted in Chandigarh (January–August 2023). MSM aged ≥18 years using online platforms were approached through convenience sampling. After informed consent, online interviews were conducted using a structured, pre-tested tool. A total of 239 MSM were enrolled.

RESULTS:
Of the 239 MSM enrolled, most were young (mean age 24.2 years) and lived alone (87%). Virtual platforms were widely used, with 93.3% on Grindr/Blued/Planet Romeo and over 80% were active on multiple social media apps. More than half identified as Kothi (56.9%). High-risk behaviours were common: 88.7% had more than 10 regular partners and 80.3% had more than 10 non-regular partners in the past two months. Condom use was relatively high (≈80%), yet over 60% were unaware of their partners’ HIV status. Paid sex was reported by 74.1%. HIV knowledge was poor, with major misconceptions (e.g., 90.8% believed in mosquito-borne transmission). Only 21.7% had heard of ART, and contact with NGOs/CBOs was low (22–27%).

CONCLUSIONS:
MSM in virtual spaces form a young, highly active, and largely unreached population with significant HIV misconceptions, frequent partner change, widespread paid sex and limited access to targeted intervention services. Despite relatively high condom use, poor knowledge of partner’s HIV status and multiple misconceptions elevate their risk.