Telangana cops warn Maha Kumbh pilgrims of cyber fraud while booking travel, stay

Fraudsters luring devotees by offering accommodation at significantly discounted rates, setting up fake websites and booking links to collect advance payments for hotels, dharamshala and tents

Hyderabad: The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB) has urged pilgrims planning to attend the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, to stay vigilant while making travel arrangements, particularly online hotel, dharamshala and guesthouse bookings.

“With millions of visitors expected during the 45-day event, cybercriminals are actively exploiting the demand for accommodations by creating fake websites and links to deceive unsuspecting pilgrims,” they said.

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They are luring devotees by offering accommodations at significantly discounted rates. They are also setting up fraudulent websites and fake booking links to collect advance payments for hotels, dharamshala and tents, without providing actual reservations, the TGCSB advisory said.

Advisory for Maha Kumbh pilgrims

• Book accommodations only through official channels
• Official list of approved accommodations available at kumbh.gov.in/en/Wheretostaylist
• Avoid clicking on unknown links offering accommodation at unusually low prices
• Do not make advance payments to unknown accounts or through unofficial booking platforms
• Verify the authenticity of accommodation or service provider by cross-checking with official directories or contacting state authorities directly
• If you suspect fraud or have been targeted by a cybercriminal, disconnect from any further communication with the scammer
• File a complaint at the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or visit the official cybercrime reporting portal cybercrime.gov.in

For more information and updates

• Visit tgcsb.tspolice.gov.in
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