The landscape of online fraud is in a constant state of evolution, with scammers continuously adopting more sophisticated tactics to exploit unsuspecting individuals. With the advancement of technology, these fraudsters have an ever-expanding arsenal at their disposal. In a recent online scam, over 100 tourists, predominantly from West Bengal, have fallen prey to fraudulent hotel bookings in Puri, a popular tourist destination in Odisha, India.
As reported by The Times of India, these scams have been unfolding over the past six months, with two fresh cases emerging just this past Sunday. The culprits behind these scams have devised fake websites bearing the names of legitimate hotels in Puri. These deceptive websites offer alluring discounts on tour packages and sightseeing, luring unsuspecting tourists into making reservations. After a booking is made, the scammers demand advance payments, which the victims unwittingly transfer. However, upon arriving at the hotel, these tourists are met with a harsh reality—there is no reservation, and their money is lost.
For example, Rakesh Halder from Kolkata fell victim to one such scam. He reserved a hotel room for six days through a fake website created by the scammers. When it was time to make the payment, he was directed to a payment platform, where he was asked to send an advance payment of Rs 8000.
"I transferred the amount. When I reached Puri, I found that no such hotel exists. I have lodged a complaint with Puri Police," he recounted.
Many victims are hesitant to report such frauds due to the complexities involved in dealing with law enforcement and the legal system. This reluctance to report emboldens the scammers to continue their illicit activities. Authorities are urging tourists to exercise caution when booking hotels online and to utilize only well-established and reputable platforms. Additionally, it is advisable to verify the hotel's existence and contact details before making any payments.
Here are some essential tips to safeguard against falling victim to online hotel booking scams or similar enticing deals:
> Exclusively use reputable and widely recognized booking websites.
> Verify the hotel's official website and contact information.
> Prior to making a reservation, read reviews of the hotel from verified sources.
> Exercise caution if a deal appears too good to be true.
> Never send money to a hotel without first confirming your reservation.
> If you believe you have fallen victim to a scam, promptly report it to the police.
By adhering to these guidelines, tourists can reduce their vulnerability to online scams and ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
