Online hotel booking fraud: Puri police block 22 fake websites

Bhubaneswar: The cyber cell of Puri police in Odisha have taken steps to successfully block at least 22 fake websites in last few months in connection with online hotel room booking fraud.

This was revealed during a seminar organised by the Puri district police today to create awareness regarding the online hotel booking fraud.

The Holy City has reported 30 cases of cyber fraud with regard to online hotel room bookings in last few months. The victims had incurred losses to the tune of Rs 10,23,885, said a senior official of Puri police in the seminar.

“Due to prompt reporting by the hotel owners, at least 22 fake websites have been blocked by Puri cyber police team in the last few months. We have also taken steps for refund of Rs 1,02,493 to the rightful owners,” added the official.

The police have appealed to the hotel owners and tourists to remain alert with regard to the online hotel room booking fraud.

“The people can report cyber offences to state Crime Branch through helpline no. 1930. The tourists can also use helpline number 6370967100 issued by the Puri police to report such cases,” said the official.