In a shocking case of religious exploitation through digital means, Karnataka police have uncovered a sophisticated online scam targeting devotees of the renowned Sri Kshetra Kollur Mookambika Temple. Fraudsters created a mirror website that perfectly mimicked the official temple portal, deceiving hundreds of pilgrims seeking accommodation facilities.
The elaborate scheme came to light when temple authorities noticed discrepancies in booking patterns and received multiple complaints from devotees who had paid for rooms through the fake portal. The cyber criminals had replicated the temple's official website design, services, and even payment gateway interfaces with remarkable accuracy.
How the Elaborate Scam Operated
Investigators revealed that the fraudulent website operated with sophisticated precision:
- Perfect Replication: The fake site mirrored the official temple website's layout, color scheme, and content
- Deceptive URLs: Scammers used domain names closely resembling the legitimate temple website address
- Payment Processing: The site featured functioning payment gateways that processed transactions but never confirmed bookings
- Fake Confirmations: Victims received fabricated booking confirmation emails and messages
Police Action and Investigation
Udupi district police have registered a formal case and launched a comprehensive investigation into the cyber fraud. Technical experts are working to trace the digital footprint of the perpetrators while analyzing financial transactions to identify the money trail.
"This is not just financial fraud but emotional exploitation of devotees' religious sentiments," stated a senior police official involved in the investigation. "We are employing advanced cyber forensic techniques to identify and apprehend those responsible."
Protecting Devotees from Digital Fraud
Temple authorities have issued an urgent advisory warning pilgrims to exercise caution when making online bookings. Official representatives emphasized that the legitimate temple website remains the only authorized platform for accommodation reservations and other services.
Devotees are advised to:
- Verify website URLs carefully before entering personal or payment information
- Cross-check booking confirmations directly with temple administration
- Report suspicious websites or communication to temple authorities immediately
- Use verified contact numbers and email addresses provided on the official temple website
The incident highlights growing concerns about cyber criminals targeting religious institutions and exploiting devotees' trust. As digital platforms become increasingly integral to religious tourism, authorities stress the importance of cybersecurity awareness among temple visitors.
