Taking action against online fraud, police authorities have successfully shut down seven fake websites operating under the guise of “Shri Mahakaleshwar Bhakt Niwas,” which were duping thousands of unsuspecting devotees visiting the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple daily.
These fraudulent websites were offering fake hotel booking services, luring devotees with false promises of accommodations and collecting advance payments. Victims only discovered the scam upon arriving in Ujjain, when they were presented with fake booking confirmations, causing distress and tarnishing the temple’s reputation.
Following a surge in complaints received by CSP Kotwali Rahul Deshmukh and Mahakal police station, Superintendent of Police Pradeep Sharma directed a joint operation. A team comprising officials from CSP Kotwali, Mahakal police, and the IT cell launched a technical investigation into the hosting, domain registrations, and browser activity associated with the suspicious websites.
After collecting substantial technical evidence, the team coordinated with domain registrars to take immediate action. Seven fake websites were successfully taken offline, and measures were implemented to ensure they cannot be reactivated. The investigation also included detailed digital tracking to close security loopholes and prevent similar scams in the future.
Authorities have announced plans for heightened surveillance to monitor such cybercrimes going forward. In addition, a special awareness campaign will be launched to educate devotees and the general public on safe online booking practices.
The police have strongly advised pilgrims to use only the official temple committee website or government-approved portals for booking accommodations at Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple or Bhakt Niwas. Devotees are urged to verify the authenticity of websites before making any payments and to immediately report any suspicious activity or fake websites to the Mahakal police station or the local cyber cell.