December 17, 2024: As preparations intensify for the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela, organisers have issued an urgent warning to devotees and visitors against online fraud related to hotel bookings. With the grand religious event set to take place from January 13 to February 26, 2025, attracting an estimated 40 crore attendees, the organisers are urging caution as several fraudulent websites and phone numbers are preying on unsuspecting pilgrims.

According to officials, multiple fake hotel booking platforms have emerged in recent weeks, duping visitors by accepting reservations under the names of legitimate hotels and accommodation providers in Prayagraj. Many devotees have already reported being cheated, with complaints ranging from fraudulent booking confirmations to payment scams.

“Several hotels, guest houses, and tent providers have been informed by visitors who were led to believe they had made reservations through bogus websites. Unfortunately, these websites do not belong to the actual service providers,” said a spokesperson from the Kumbh Mela organising committee.

Police authorities have been alerted to the growing problem, with 44 suspicious websites now under investigation. In addition, 54 fraudulent websites have already been shut down. Cyber police are focusing on identifying the perpetrators and preventing further scams, particularly those using QR codes of legitimate hotels to mislead devotees.

“Fake websites in the names of over 50 hotels have been created, and we are actively investigating more complaints of fraud. We urge all visitors to only use verified and trusted sources for hotel bookings,” said a senior officer from the local cybercrime unit.

Authorities are working closely with hotels and accommodation providers to ensure that all legitimate booking channels are publicly listed and easily accessible. Visitors are advised to double-check URLs and use official Kumbh Mela websites for their accommodation needs to avoid falling victim to scams.

Devotees are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity directly to the local police or cybercrime units to help prevent further fraudulent schemes as the Kumbh Mela approaches.

As the Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, organisers are doing everything possible to ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees during the event, including combating fraudulent practices targeting vulnerable visitors.