Bhubaneswar: With lakhs of devotees expected in Puri for the holy Rath Yatra 2026, the Cyber Crime Unit of CID, Crime Branch, Odisha launched a special drive to curb online fraud targeting pilgrims.
From June 1 to July 18, 2026, the unit undertook proactive policing and preventive measures to protect devotees who increasingly book hotels, transport and other services online. Police said cyber criminals were using fake hotel websites, fraudulent booking pages and misleading content to cheat tourists.
As part of the crackdown, the Cyber Crime Unit got 121 fake hotel websites and 33 fake hotel webpages taken down or blocked. It also caused 19 pieces of misleading content related to Rath Yatra to be removed from digital platforms.
In coordination with service providers, 893 mobile numbers and 793 IMEIs used for customer care fraud, e-commerce fraud, hotel booking fraud and other cyber scams targeting devotees were also blocked. Officials said the action helped ensure a safe and hassle-free Rath Yatra by preventing financial losses to pilgrims.
Police have urged citizens to book hotels, guest houses and travel only through official websites and verified applications. People have been asked to avoid clicking on links received via SMS, WhatsApp or social media, and to verify the authenticity of a website and its contact number before making any online payment.
Devotees have also been warned against sharing OTP, UPI PIN, bank or card details with anyone, and to be cautious of offers of cheap darshan tickets, hotel rooms or “special passes” that seem too good to be true.
In case of any cyber fraud, victims can immediately dial the Cyber Helpline No. 1930, report at www.cybercrime.gov.in, or contact the nearest police station.
