In a growing trend of cyber fraud targeting the Maha Kumbh Mela, several fake websites promising hotel, tent, and cottage bookings have come to light, prompting the police to launch an intensive crackdown. On Friday, the cyber police registered cases against four such fraudulent websites and subsequently shut them down.
Deputy Inspector of Cyber Cell Vinod Kumar Yadav stated that cybercriminals were exploiting the faith and enthusiasm of devotees by creating fake platforms offering premium services, including accommodations and special VIP bathing arrangements. “These websites are deceiving pilgrims and extorting significant sums of money under the guise of bookings,” he said, urging people to remain vigilant.
This marks the fifth case registered against fake websites since November 18, when the cyber police began targeting such fraudulent activities.
A dedicated team is now investigating the domains of these sites to identify their operators.
Emails have been sent to hosting services to uncover the registrants and locations from where these sites are being managed.
The four websites identified and acted upon are:
shttps://mahakumbhfestival.com/
shttps://mahakumbhcottagesreservation.org/
shttps://jainmandiranddharamshala.in/
shttps://mahakumbhcottagesreservation.org/
The cyber police confirmed that FIRs have been filed, and efforts are underway to track down the fraudsters. “Once the domain details are received, we will expedite the arrest of those behind this scam,” Yadav added.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, a globally renowned religious gathering, attracts millions of pilgrims. With this influx, cybercriminals see an opportunity to exploit unsuspecting devotees.
The police have advised pilgrims to verify booking platforms thoroughly and rely only on official websites for reservations.
Authorities are also urging citizens to report suspicious websites or activities immediately, reinforcing the message that collective vigilance is the key to preventing such frauds.
