Are Tourists Safe from Hotel Booking Scams During Rath Yatra?
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Synopsis
As the Jagannath Rath Yatra draws near, Odisha Police warns tourists about a surge in hotel booking scams. With many fake websites appearing legitimate, travelers must stay vigilant. Learn how to protect yourself and ensure a safe and enjoyable pilgrimage experience.
Key Takeaways
- Be cautious of suspiciously low prices.
- Use only verified platforms for bookings.
- Confirm hotel details via Google Maps.
- Make partial payments when possible.
- Report fraudulent sites to Cyber Crime Helpline 1930.
Bhubaneswar, June 25 (NationPress) The Odisha Police has issued a warning to travelers regarding the increasing incidents of hotel booking scams in Odisha as the highly anticipated Jagannath Rath Yatra approaches, scheduled to begin on June 27.
“Scammers are proliferating in Odisha, particularly in tourist hotspots like Puri, Bhubaneswar, and Cuttack. These fraudsters create deceptive websites and social media profiles that mimic legitimate services, advertising attractive rates and urgent offers. They often require full payment via UPI, digital wallets, or bank transfers, and utilize counterfeit customer service numbers and receipts,” cautioned an official statement from the Odisha Crime Branch.
“Many of these fraudulent sites rank highly on Google search results, complicating identification,” the statement added.
Victims frequently discover their deception only after they reach their intended destination.
The Odisha Police noted that numerous complaints have been received through the Cyber Crime Helpline 1930, alongside alerts from government agencies, hotel proprietors, and the public about fake websites promoting illegitimate hotel deals.
“To date, our team has logged 317 complaints concerning fake hotel booking sites via the Cyber Crime Helpline, and actions have been initiated against them. We remain vigilant in monitoring for fraudulent hotel booking sites and respond swiftly to eliminate them as they emerge,” the Odisha Police confirmed.
Travelers and devotees are urged to make hotel reservations exclusively through verified platforms or official tourism websites, verify the hotel’s contact details and location through Google Maps, and confirm bookings by directly contacting the hotel.
It is recommended to avoid making full advance payments, opting instead for partial payments when feasible, and utilizing safe payment channels instead of direct UPI or wallet transfers.
Visitors are encouraged to request a legitimate booking confirmation via SMS or email that includes a valid booking ID or invoice. They should remain wary of deals that are suspiciously low-priced, particularly around Puri during the Ratha Yatra.
Furthermore, guests are advised to read recent reviews and ratings on credible platforms prior to making any bookings.
If travelers encounter any fraudulent hotel websites or dubious listings, they should promptly report them to the Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930.
The Crime Branch's social media team has also removed several fraudulent booking sites after receiving reports.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight the ongoing battle against cyber fraud, particularly during significant events like the Jagannath Rath Yatra. With increased tourism, the potential for scams escalates, urging both authorities and travelers to remain vigilant. This situation calls for a collective effort to ensure a safe environment for all visitors while promoting awareness around digital security. NationPress stands committed to reporting these critical issues.
NationPress
25/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I identify fraudulent hotel booking websites?
Look for signs such as unrealistic pricing, lack of contact information, and poor website quality. Always verify the hotel’s details through official tourism websites.
What should I do if I fall victim to a hotel booking scam?
Immediately report the incident to the Cyber Crime Helpline 1930 and your local authorities. Document all communication and payments made.
Is it safe to make hotel reservations online?
Yes, but ensure you use verified platforms and check for secure payment methods. Avoid making full payments in advance when possible.
What precautions should I take when booking hotels for events like Rath Yatra?
Always book through official channels, confirm with the hotel directly, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
How can I ensure my payment details are safe during online transactions?
Use trusted payment gateways, avoid sharing sensitive information, and monitor your bank statements for any unauthorized charges.
