PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE / Dehradun
Cyber criminals may target devotees with fake VIP darshan passes, prasad delivery offers and donation links during Janmashtami to be celebrated on September 4, prompting the cyber police to issue an advisory for devotees across Uttarakhand. The warning aims to prevent people from losing money while making online payments during the festival.
The cyber experts said fraudsters may use social media advertisements, messages and fake websites to cheat people. They may send fake booking links for VIP darshan or special puja passes in the name of temples. People may also receive offers for online prasad delivery and be asked to make an advance payment or pay a token amount, cyber experts said.
The Special Task Force superintendent of police Ajai Singh said cyber criminals could also create fake websites offering puja items, religious clothes and gifts at heavy discounts. Singh said another common method was to share fake QR codes or UPI IDs in the name of temple trusts and ask people to make donations.
Singh advised devotees not to click on unknown links or make payments for unverified passes and prasad services. They should never share their OTP, UPI PIN, bank details or other financial information with anyone.
“Devotees should verify all information through the official portal or verified website of the concerned temple or trust,” he added.
