The biggest global mela-Mahakumbh with the grand religious gathering is taking place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh this year.
The event is set to attract millions of devotees, pilgrims, and tourists from all over the world. Hence, it’s important to be extra cautious, as alongside the cultural celebration, the event could become an opportunity for cybercriminals to execute their fraudulent schemes.
Let’s take a closer look to understand how fraudsters can exploit this spiritual gathering and what initiatives the Uttar Pradesh Government has taken to address the risk.
How Cyber Scammers Target Pilgrims During Mahakumbh Mela
Scams like digital arrest, phishing scams, fake apps & websites are at their peak. In such a scenario, Mahakumbh Mela comes with another opportunity for scammers to run their evil schemes.
From QR codes to fake donations they can reach out to you by any means and hence it becomes vital for you to be extra cautious and alert while planning your visit to the pilgrimage.
Below are some of the highlighted cyber frauds that could be executed by the scammers:
- Fake Booking Websites and Apps
When it comes to travel, everyone looks for cheap stays. Scammers generally reap the benefit of such demands and reach out to people by creating fake accommodation booking websites and apps.
These apps & websites generally look legitimate, with images of hotels and guest houses claiming to offer cheap stays during the Mela.
Unsuspecting pilgrims make payments for bookings but later find that their reservations don’t exist, and the money they paid is gone. - Phishing Attacks through Fake Notifications
Cyber fraudsters hack websites to breach the data of users. This helps them to identify users who book travel or hotels through the websites.
These fraudsters then target those users through phishing emails, text messages, or social media ads to trick visitors into providing sensitive information.
These fake messages often appear to be official communications from authorities, such as booking confirmations, donation requests, or travel tips.
Once victims click on malicious links, they’re led to fake portals where they unknowingly provide their personal and financial details, resulting in vacant bank accounts in seconds.
So, even if you are using legitimate websites for booking, your money is still not safe. Hence make sure you contact the authentic customer support or other executive before clicking on any link or providing any details online. - Fake Donation Requests
Given the spiritual nature of the Mahakumbh Mela, scammers often take advantage of people’s desire to contribute to religious causes.
Fraudsters send out fake donation appeals via email or social media, claiming to be associated with the event organizers or prominent temples.
These scams often involve requests for financial contributions or gifts for rituals, leading to the loss of money for those who fall into the trap. - Unauthorized Payment Links and QR Codes
At large gatherings like the Mahakumbh Mela, mobile payments and QR codes are widely used for convenience. Scammers often set up fake payment systems with fraudulent QR codes or links near key areas of the Mela.
Pilgrims, in a rush or unaware, scan the code and make payments to scam accounts. These payments are often for non-existent services like guided tours, food, or transportation. - Impersonating Religious Leaders
Scammers posing as spiritual leaders or religious figures have also emerged during such large-scale events. They create fake social media profiles or websites and ask followers for donations.
Some of these scams involve fraudulent rituals or vows that prey on people’s faith, often at inflated prices.
How the Uttar Pradesh Government is Fighting Cyber Fraud During Mahakumbh Mela
Recognizing the growing threat of cyber scams, the Uttar Pradesh government is taking proactive steps to safeguard pilgrims during the Mahakumbh Mela 2025:
1. Official Verification of Booking Platforms
To protect visitors from fraudulent booking websites and apps, the UP government is promoting officially verified online platforms.
The government has partnered with trusted digital service providers to ensure that pilgrims use legitimate sources to book their services. This eventually would help in reducing the risk of falling victim to fake websites.
2. Cybercrime Helpline (1930)
The government has set a banner with the emergency Cybercrime number 1930 at multiple locations. In case of scams, pilgrims can report their issues immediately through this helpline.
The helpline provides quick assistance and helps trace fraudulent activities. The quick action also makes it easier for authorities to take action and recover stolen funds.
3. Awareness Campaigns
The government is running public awareness campaigns to educate pilgrims about common cyber fraud tactics.
Through social media posts, radio ads, and pamphlets, the authorities are highlighting the importance of checking official sources and avoiding suspicious websites and payment links.
The campaigns are also teaching people how to spot phishing attempts and what to do if they encounter a scam.
4. Increased Cyber Surveillance
Ahead of the Mahakumbh Mela, the state has increased the activities of cyber surveillance to track suspicious online activities.
Authorities are monitoring social media, online platforms, and digital payment systems to identify potential fraudsters and disrupt cyber scams before they can cause harm.
5. Collaboration with Banks and Financial Institutions
The UP government is working closely with banks and financial institutions to prevent unauthorized transactions.
Special measures are being taken to ensure that payments made during the event are secure, and customers are alerted about any suspicious activity related to their bank accounts.
Conclusion
While the Mahakumbh Mela offers a profound spiritual experience, it is also a hotspot for cyber scammers. By staying vigilant, checking official sources, and following the government’s guidelines, pilgrims can significantly reduce their chances of getting scammed.
As the event starts, the UP government’s efforts to combat cybercrime and ensure a safe environment for visitors. This will play a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of this sacred occasion.
For anyone attending the Maha Kumbh Mela in 2025, remember: to trust only official platforms, report suspicious activities immediately, and protect your personal and financial information.
