The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual event, is poised to bring over 40-45 million pilgrims to Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. However, amidst the grandeur, a lurking menace threatens to mar the experience—digital fraud.
Cybercriminals are exploiting the event’s massive scale, using fake websites, phishing scams, and digital payment fraud to prey on unsuspecting devotees. With technology becoming a double-edged sword, this religious gathering also emerges as a hotspot for sophisticated cyberattacks.
Fake Websites: The New Age Asuras
Tech-savvy fraudsters have unleashed an arsenal of fake websites offering non-existent accommodations and VIP services for the Maha Kumbh.
From “www.kumbhcottagebooking.com” to “www.mahakumbhtentreservation.com,” these deceptive portals have duped devotees into paying lakhs of rupees. According to DCP Abhishek Bharti, four operators with technical backgrounds were arrested, revealing their racket involving nine such sites.
Victims are often directed to these convincing websites through social media ads or WhatsApp messages. Payment is made, promises are given, and then the scammers disappear, leaving devotees stranded. These sites, devoid of any actual partnerships with local facilities, prey on the faith of pilgrims, turning their spiritual journey into a nightmare.
Cyber Threats In Disguise
As millions gather, the event becomes a lucrative target for cybercriminals employing sophisticated methods like phishing and ransomware. Apurva Gopinath from India Aon warns that sensitive personal and financial data collected during the event could lead to devastating cyberattacks. Phishing scams, which mimic legitimate websites to extract details like passwords and credit card information, are just the tip of the iceberg.
Ransomware and denial-of-service attacks pose larger threats, potentially disrupting critical services, such as security systems and public Wi-Fi. Vishal Salvi of Quick Heal Technologies notes that even surveillance cameras with default IP addresses can be compromised, highlighting the vulnerability of even the most basic public facilities.
Cracking Down On The Culprits
Law enforcement has stepped up its game, with the Prayagraj Cyber Crime police working round the clock to combat fraud. Recent arrests of tech-savvy racketeers operating fake websites underscore their proactive measures. Over six smartphones, three laptops, and multiple ATM cards have been seized, and FIRs have been registered under sections of the IT Act.
Prashant Kumar, Uttar Pradesh’s director general of police, assured that advanced technical institutions and cyber experts are assisting in securing the event’s cyberspace. A dedicated cyber police station in Prayagraj has been established, and a helpline (1930) has been activated for victims to report cybercrime.
Also Read: Here’s How You Can Protect Yourself Against QR Code Scams
Public Vigilance
While authorities are tightening security, public awareness remains crucial. Experts recommend avoiding public Wi-Fi for transactions and verifying the legitimacy of websites before booking accommodations. Vishal Salvi cautions against using unsecured networks, as even basic technical knowledge can enable hackers to exploit them.
Moreover, AI-driven solutions, such as those by mFilterIt, are being implemented to identify and block malicious ads. However, devotees are urged to stay vigilant, cross-check offers, and rely on official websites or apps for bookings to avoid falling prey to scams.
A Call For Cybersecurity Preparedness
The Maha Kumbh Mela is more than a religious gathering; it is a testament to India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Unfortunately, it has also become a battleground for cybercriminals. Lawyers warn that the intent behind cyberattacks may not always be monetary. As senior advocate N.S. Nappinai points out, that some perpetrators may aim to incite panic or disrupt national interests, warranting heightened cybersecurity measures.
Authorities must ensure robust defences against digital intrusions. Enhanced encryption, public awareness campaigns, and constant monitoring of online activities could act as deterrents. The success of this colossal event depends on safeguarding not just the physical space but also the digital one.
The Maha Kumbh Mela symbolises unity, faith, and tradition, drawing millions to its spiritual sanctity. However, as this age-old event adapts to modernity, it also grapples with contemporary challenges.
By combining stringent cybersecurity measures with public vigilance, authorities and devotees can ensure that the sanctity of the Maha Kumbh remains unmarred. After all, faith may move mountains, but a little caution can keep cybercriminals at bay.
Image Credits: Google Images
Sources: Times Of India, Live Mint, Economic Times
Find the blogger: Katyayani Joshi
This post is tagged under: Maha Kumbh Mela, Cybersecurity Awareness, Digital Fraud, Cyber Crime India, Kumbh Mela 2025, Online Scams, Cyber Safety, Spiritual Events, Cyber Threats, Digital Vigilance, India Culture, Pilgrimage Safety, Cyber Awareness Campaign, Religious Tourism, Prayagraj News
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