As the Maha Kumbh Mela commenced on January 13, 2025, in Prayagraj (formerly, Allahabad), security experts have raised concerns about potential cyber threats targeting the millions of devotees attending this sacred duodecennial gathering. Given the sheer number of people who will be there, it is important to be safe. Here are some of the most important tips to keep in mind in order to stay safe at one of the grandest religious festivals in India.
Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Tips To Safeguard Against Online Scams
Digital payment fraud emerges as a primary concern. More so, through manipulated QR codes and unauthorised UPI requests. Amit Kumar of Easebuzz highlights how fraudsters might exploit visitors through counterfeit payment systems.
This highlights the crucial need to verify payment credentials before any transactions. Accommodation scams present another significant risk, with criminals creating deceptive websites advertising non-existent lodging options. Dhiraj Gupta from mFilterIT warns of fraudulent schemes operating through WhatsApp and emails.
These schemes target pilgrims with seemingly attractive accommodation deals that vanish once payment is received. The event’s digital infrastructure faces additional challenges. Animesh Jha of Wibmo points out vulnerabilities in registration portals and booking platforms.
Be Wary Of These Things While You’re At The Festival
These vulnerabilities could be compromised through phishing attempts and denial-of-service attacks. Public Wi-Fi networks at the gathering pose particular risks, potentially exposing users to data theft. To combat these threats, authorities and cybersecurity firms have implemented various protective measures.
Experts recommend several precautionary steps. These are as follows: –
- Using only official government websites for bookings
- Verifying secure website protocols (https://)
- Avoiding unauthorised QR codes
- Utilising mobile data or VPNs instead of public Wi-Fi.
They also stress the importance of reporting suspicious activities to local authorities through official channels. With the integration of technology in religious gatherings, cybersecurity awareness becomes paramount for ensuring a safe and spiritually fulfilling experience for all attendees.
Did you find any of these tips helpful? What else can you do to safeguard yourself from digital scams? Let us know in the comments section below!
Cover Image Credits: @MahaKumbh_2025/ X (Formerly, Twitter)
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