Uttarakhand STF has made a big revelation on the gangs that make devotees victims of online fraud during the Chardham Yatra. Investigation has revealed that most of the cyber frauds in the name of Kedarnath Heli service and travel booking are being done by gangs operating from Nawada, Patna, Gaya and Biharsharif districts of Bihar. Most fake IP addresses have been found active in these four districts.
According to STF, as soon as the Chardham Yatra started, cyber criminals started targeting devotees through fake websites, social media pages and mobile numbers. Most of the complaints were received regarding online booking of Kedarnath Heli service, where fraudsters were getting people to transfer thousands of rupees online on the pretext of providing low prices and Tatkal tickets. In many cases, money was extorted from people in the name of fake hotel and guest house booking.
STF has so far closed more than 200 fake websites, Facebook pages, Instagram accounts and booking links. Apart from this, more than 50 suspicious mobile numbers which were being used in cyber fraud have also been blocked. Investigating agencies say that these gangs were working in an organized manner and were reaching out to passengers through social media advertisements.
Constant monitoring is being done to make the Chardham Yatra safe. Cyber teams are keeping an eye on social media platforms, fake travel portals and suspicious online payment activities. Due to many fake websites looking like government portals, devotees are easily becoming victims of fraud. More than 200 sites have been closed so far.
-Ajay Singh, SSP, STF
Book only through authorized website
STF SSP Ajay Singh has appealed to the passengers to get heli service, hotel or travel registration done only through the authorized portal. Do not make payment through any unknown mobile number, social media link or WhatsApp message. Uttarakhand government has authorized only IRCTC for Kedarnath Heli service booking. Book tickets only from there. If any kind of cyber fraud occurs, immediately lodge a complaint on cyber helpline 1930 or the nearest police station.
STF attacks cyber criminals
Uttarakhand STF is taking strict action against cyber criminals under Operation Prahar. STF SSP Ajay Singh said that Rs 10 crore was saved from the victims in the last four months. Apart from this, legal action was taken against 147 interstate link operators and 27 fake mobile holders.