If you are preparing for the pilgrimage of Kedarnath or Somnath, then wait once and be alert. Now cyber thugs have started weaving a new trap to cheat innocent devotees. These thugs are trying to collect money from pilgrims through fake websites and false advertisements.
Government agency CyberDost i4C has recently informed about this fraud on its X (first Twitter) account. He said that many fake websites are confusing the devotees by calling themselves the official site. Especially those people who are going on a journey for the first time, can easily come under their deception.
How do you cheat?
These fake websites are exactly like real sites. Names and designs are also almost the same. They lure you of a tour package in the name of Kedarnath helicopter booking or Somnath Yatra. When you make payment, there is neither a journey nor money is returned.
How to identify fake websites?
- Look at URL carefully: There is a slight difference from spelling of the name of the real website. For example, ‘Kedarnathhelipad., In’ is changed to ‘Kedarnathheiipad.in’ (here is ‘I’ instead of ‘L’).
- Check the domain name: Real websites usually use reliable domains like .gov.in, .org or .com. If you see strange extensions like .XYZ, .top or .Info, then be cautious.
- Must see https: In the website address, “Sure, but do not be relaxed only, because now the thugs are also using it.
- Beware of advertisements: Do not book directly with an attractive package advertisement seen on social media or Google. First check the reality of the website.
Where to do the real booking?
CyberDost has also shared some official websites for the Kedarnath and Somnath Yatra:
– Kedarnath helicopter booking:[[
– Somnath Yatra Information:[[
Caution is safety
If you or your acquaintances are preparing for the pilgrimage, then please tell them about this kind of fraud. Booking from the official website itself and never enter your bank details on any unknown website. Remember, a little vigilance can save you from loss of thousands of rupees.