- The Cyber Crime Unit blocked 121 fake hotel booking websites and 33 fraudulent hotel webpages.
- Authorities also disabled 893 mobile numbers and 793 IMEI numbers allegedly linked to cyber fraud.
- Police advised pilgrims to report cyber fraud immediately through the National Cyber Helpline 1930.
PURI: The Rath Yatra cyber security operation has received a major boost after the Cyber Crime Unit of the CID, Crime Branch, Odisha dismantled a large network of fraudulent online platforms targeting pilgrims visiting Puri for Rath Yatra 2026. Between June 1 and July 18, officials blocked 121 fake hotel booking websites and 33 deceptive hotel webpages to protect devotees from online financial scams.
The preventive campaign was launched as lakhs of pilgrims travelled to Puri, where cybercriminals often exploit the surge in demand for accommodation, transport and pilgrimage-related services through fake websites and fraudulent payment links.
Rath Yatra Cyber Security Drive Targets Online Fraud
According to the Crime Branch, the operation focused on identifying and disabling fake hotel booking portals, fraudulent travel websites and misleading digital content designed to deceive pilgrims.
During the drive, officials also:
- Removed or blocked 19 misleading online contents related to Rath Yatra.
- Blocked 893 mobile numbers allegedly used in cyber fraud.
- Disabled 793 IMEI numbers linked to fraudulent activities.
The action was carried out in coordination with telecom operators and digital service providers to curb customer care fraud, fake hotel booking scams, e-commerce fraud and other cyber offences reported during the festival.
Officials said the proactive measures significantly reduced the risk of financial fraud and contributed to a safer digital experience for devotees.
Odisha Police Issue Advisory to Pilgrims
With cybercriminals increasingly using fake websites and social media promotions to lure unsuspecting visitors, Odisha Police have urged devotees to exercise caution while making online bookings.
Pilgrims have been advised to:
- Book hotels and travel services only through official websites or verified booking platforms.
- Avoid clicking on hotel booking links received through SMS, WhatsApp or social media.
- Verify website addresses, contact numbers and payment details before making online transactions.
- Ignore offers promising unusually cheap hotel rooms, VIP darshan tickets or special festival passes.
- Never share OTPs, UPI PINs, bank account details or debit and credit card information with unknown persons.
The advisory aims to minimise the risk of phishing attacks and online payment fraud during one of India’s largest religious gatherings.
Report Cyber Fraud Immediately
The Crime Branch has urged victims of cyber fraud to report incidents without delay to improve the chances of recovering lost funds and tracking offenders.
In case of fraud, devotees should:
- Call the National Cyber Helpline (1930) immediately.
- Lodge a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
- Inform the nearest police station for prompt assistance.
The extensive Rath Yatra cyber security campaign highlights Odisha Police’s growing emphasis on digital policing alongside traditional security arrangements. As millions of pilgrims participate in the annual festival, authorities are working to ensure that both physical and online environments remain safe, allowing devotees to focus on their spiritual journey without falling victim to cybercrime.
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