Indian Police Bust Cybercriminal Ring Targeting Tourists

Indian Police Crack Cybercriminal Ring Targeting Tourists and Devotees Using Fake Websites

🚨 The Indian Police Department at Bapatla district has recently made significant strides in combating Cybercriminals by successfully cracking a major case that has implications across India. The investigation led to the arrest of two Cybercriminals from Rajasthan, a state in India, believed to be masterminds behind a network of fraudulent websites that defrauded unsuspecting tourists and devotees. Two individuals from Rajasthan state of India hailing from a village were arrested for operating a network of fake websites impersonating popular travel and religious destinations. This case underscores the increasing severity of Cybercriminal operations and the continuous efforts by law enforcement agencies and the Indian Police, to address these challenges. The Indian Police in the state of Andhra Pradesh have dismantled a nationwide Cybercriminal syndicate that defrauded hundreds of unsuspecting tourists and devotees across India.

🎯 Modus Operandi of the Cybercriminals

According to reports, the arrested Cybercriminals set up several fake websites designed to lure tourists and religious devotees with irresistible offers, including discounted travel packages and exclusive access to various events. Unfortunately, many victims were deceived into providing personal information and financial details, which were then exploited for monetary gain. The sophisticated methods employed by these Cybercriminals highlight a growing trend in the digital landscape where fraudsters operate under the guise of legitimate businesses. The Cybercriminals created counterfeit websites mimicking:

• Haritha Resorts, Suryalanka (APTDC)

• Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD)

• Srisailam Devasthanam (AP)

• Trimbakeshwar Temple (Maharashtra)

The Cybercriminals created these fraudulent platforms and lured victims into making online bookings and payments, only for them to discover the deception upon arrival at the actual locations.

📍 The Spark: A Local Complaint Against the Cybercriminals with National Ripples

The Cybercriminal investigation was triggered by a complaint from the Manager of Haritha Resorts in Suryalanka, who reported a fake website titled “Harith Beach Resort Suryalanka.” Registered under Crime No. 110/2024, the case quickly escalated as police uncovered:

• 127 complaints against these Cybercriminals across 18 states

• Rs 50 lakh (over USD 57,000) swindled from victims

• 49 fake Haritha Resorts bookings done by these Cybercriminals

• 11 fraudulent temple accommodation scams

• 52 other online frauds including OLX scams and UPI-based Cybercriminal frauds

Using NCRP and SAMANVAYA portals, the team traced the suspects’ banking records and digital footprints. On July 23, 2025, the duo was arrested in Rajasthan and brought to Guntur District Jail under tight security.

🛡️ Public Advisory Against Cybercriminal Activity

For tourists and devotees across India, this incident is a stark reminder of the potential Cybercriminal risks associated with online transactions. It is crucial for individuals to be vigilant and verify the authenticity of websites before making any transactions. Checking for secure payment options, reading reviews, and cross-referencing information can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to such scams. In light of this case, the Indian police have pledged to increase awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public about online safety and the tactics employed by cyber fraudsters. Citizens are advised to Protect themselves from Cybercriminal activity:

• Avoid clicking on unknown links

• Verify websites before making payments

• In India, report cybercrimes via helpline 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in

• Install Malwarebytes Free in your Computers and Phones or such other software that has behavioral analysis to detect fraud instantly.

The Bapatla District Indian Police IT Core Team and investigating officers were honored with certificates of appreciation and cash rewards for their exemplary service. This case stands as a stark reminder of the evolving nature of Cybercriminal activities and the importance of vigilance in the digital age. The swift and strategic action by Indian police not only brought justice to victims but also showcased the power of coordinated cyber enforcement.

How Malwarebytes Protects You from Fake Websites

Malwarebytes offers comprehensive protection against fake websites through its specialized tools and browser extensions, particularly the Malwarebytes_Browser_Guard. Here's how it works:

🛡️ Key Features That Defend Against Fake Websites

• Malwarebytes Scam Protection: Malwarebytes Blocks phishing sites, fake tech support scams, and fraudulent booking platforms. It also Prevents access to deceptive domains that mimic legitimate services like hotels, temples, or e-commerce platforms.

• Browser-Level Malware Protection: It Detects and blocks malicious code embedded in websites. It Stops in-browser Cryptojackers and Ransomware attempts before they can execute.

• Ad & Tracker Blocking: It Removes third-party ads and trackers that could lead to scam sites or collect personal data. It also Speeds up browsing while reducing exposure to suspicious content.

• Real-Time Web Protection: Malwarebytes Actively monitors URLs and web traffic to intercept threats as they occur. Alerts users when they attempt to visit known malicious or spoofed websites.

• Protection Against Remote Script Injection: Malwarebytes Shields you from Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks that can redirect them to fake sites or steal credentials.

🔍 How to Use Malwarebytes

• Install Malwarebytes Browser Guard extension for Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari.

• It runs silently in the background, displaying the number of blocked ads, trackers, and threats per site.

• Users can view detailed stats and customize protection levels.

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