The Kumbh Mela is one of the largest and most significant religious gatherings in the world, attracting millions of devotees. Maha Kumbh 2025, set to take place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, is expected to draw over 400 million pilgrims from across the globe. With the increasing reliance on digital technologies for planning travel, booking accommodations, and making donations, there is a growing need to ensure cybersecurity for the pilgrims. While digital platforms offer convenience, they also present opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit individuals. Fake websites, fraudulent booking platforms, and phishing scams can trap unsuspecting devotees.
Who is responsible for Cyber Security at Maha Kumbh 2025?
Several stakeholders are responsible for ensuring the cyber security of the Maha Kumbh 2025 event:
- Government: The government has taken the initiative to enhance the safety of devotees through digital measures. A dedicated cyber police station has been established to tackle cybercrimes during the event. Additionally, the government is running awareness campaigns to educate people about online fraud.
- Cyber Security Teams: A team of selected police officers and cyber security experts has been deployed to monitor online activities and address any potential cyber threats. They are working round the clock to ensure a safe digital environment.
- Pilgrims: Devotees themselves play a crucial role in ensuring their digital safety by following basic cyber security protocols and being vigilant against cyber threats.
- Technology Service Providers: The digital platforms that offer travel, booking, and donation services are also responsible for ensuring their platforms are secure and protected against cyber attacks.
What Cyber Security Measures have been Implemented?
Various proactive steps have been taken to ensure cyber security during the Maha Kumbh 2025:
- Cyber Police Station: A cyber police station has been established in Prayagraj to monitor and address cyber crimes such as fraudulent websites and online scams targeting pilgrims.
- Identification of Suspicious Websites: Cybersecurity teams have already identified 44 suspicious websites that were engaged in fraudulent activities. These websites have been blocked to prevent any further harm to the pilgrims.
- Digital Surveillance and 24/7 Monitoring: Continuous surveillance will be conducted online to detect and prevent any malicious activities. The cyber police will be available 24/7 to ensure safety.
- Awareness Campaigns: An extensive awareness campaign is underway to educate pilgrims about potential online threats, including fake booking websites, phishing attacks, and fraudulent donation requests.
- Official Platforms: Devotees are encouraged to use only official websites and platforms for booking services and donations. The official Maha Kumbh website (https://kumbh.gov.in) provides authentic information and services.
When do Cyber Security Threats Arise?
Cybersecurity threats can emerge at different points during the event, with certain phases being more vulnerable:
- Before the Event (During Booking): As pilgrims plan their journey and book accommodations, fraudulent websites may surface, claiming to offer legitimate booking services. Cybercriminals can use these sites to steal personal and financial information.
- During the Event (Fake Donations and Phishing): When millions of pilgrims use online services during the event, cybercriminals can exploit this opportunity to send fake donation requests, phishing links, and scam messages.
- After the Event (Post-Kumbh Scams): Even after the event concludes, cybercriminals may continue to deceive pilgrims by sending fake refund requests or fraudulent donation solicitations.
Where Can Cyber Security Issues Arise?
Cyber security issues can arise in several areas during the Maha Kumbh 2025:
- Fake Websites and Booking Platforms: As pilgrims use the internet to book travel, accommodations, and other services, fraudulent websites may mislead them and steal sensitive data like payment information.
- Social Media and Messaging Platforms: Cybercriminals can use social media platforms, such as Facebook and WhatsApp, to spread fake news, phishing links, and fraudulent donation appeals.
- Mobile Apps: Some mobile apps may not be secure, and if pilgrims download them, their data could be compromised.
- Payment Systems: Fraudulent payment links, QR codes, and fake payment gateways can trick pilgrims into providing their financial details, leading to financial losses.
Why is Cyber Security Important?
Cyber security plays a crucial role in protecting both the pilgrims and the event itself. Here’s why it is so important:
- Protection of Personal and Financial Information: Pilgrims will be sharing sensitive data, including personal and financial details, to make bookings and donations. Cyber security ensures that this information remains protected from cybercriminals.
- Maintaining Trust in the Event: If cyber threats are not managed properly, they could undermine the trust pilgrims place in the event’s digital platforms. Fraudulent activities can tarnish the reputation of the Maha Kumbh and diminish its credibility.
- Safety of Donations and Transactions: Devotees will make donations for religious causes, and their contributions must go to legitimate organizations. Cyber security helps prevent scams where criminals may impersonate charitable institutions.
How Can Pilgrims Ensure Their Cyber Security?
While the government and law enforcement agencies are actively working to protect pilgrims, devotees should also follow certain digital discipline practices to ensure their safety:
- Verify the Authenticity of Websites and Agencies: Before making any bookings or transactions, ensure that the website or agency is legitimate. Look for “https://” in the URL and check for security certificates on the site.
- Be careful of Phishing Scams: Never share personal information in response to unsolicited emails, text messages, or calls. Always verify the authenticity of such requests before responding.
- Report Suspicious Activities: If you suspect any cybercrime or fraud, report it immediately to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in) or call the helpline number 1930 to file a complaint.
Conclusion
While digital platforms make the journey to Maha Kumbh 2025 more convenient, they also expose pilgrims to the risk of cybercrime. Ensuring cyber security during such a large-scale event is essential to protect devotees and the integrity of the event itself. By adopting digital discipline, pilgrims can safeguard themselves from cyber threats and enjoy a smooth and secure spiritual experience at the Maha Kumbh.
