TTD blocks 259 fake websites offering fake Tirupati darshan tickets, room bookings and religious services.
Tirupati: Devotees planning a visit to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple are increasingly being targeted by online fraudsters using fake websites, social media pages and WhatsApp accounts in the name of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
The temple administration has revealed that more than 250 fake digital platforms were identified and removed over the past two years, which were allegedly misleading devotees by offering fake Srivari Darshan tickets, Arjitha Seva bookings, accommodation facilities and other religious services.
The development has raised concerns among millions of devotees who depend on online platforms for booking darshan tickets, rooms and special services at one of the world’s most visited temples.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams said it has taken strict action against fraudulent websites operating under the name of the temple trust. According to officials, fraudsters create websites, mobile pages, WhatsApp channels and social media accounts that appear similar to official TTD platforms. These fake platforms allegedly attract devotees by promising easy access to Tirupati darshan tickets, accommodation and special religious services.
Many devotees reportedly fall victim to such scams while searching online for booking facilities, resulting in financial losses and inconvenience. The Tirupati Venkateswara Temple witnesses a massive footfall throughout the year. On an average, around 85,000 to 95,000 devotees visit the temple every day.
The number increases significantly on Saturdays, when the daily footfall can reach nearly 1.2 lakh devotees. The temple’s hundi collection, which receives offerings from devotees, ranges between Rs 4 crore and Rs 6 crore daily, highlighting the scale and popularity of the shrine. The huge demand for darshan slots, accommodation and religious services has also made the temple a target for cyber fraud networks.
Following multiple complaints from devotees regarding fake booking platforms, TTD strengthened its monitoring mechanism through coordination between its IT department, Vigilance wing, Cyber Crime Police and other agencies.
The temple administration has been conducting digital surveillance to identify fraudulent websites and online accounts misusing the TTD name and brand identity. Officials said steps are being taken to block such fake platforms and initiate investigations against those involved in operating them.
TTD officials said strict legal action will be taken against individuals and organisations misusing the temple trust’s name, logo and intellectual property. Authorities are examining cases under copyright, trademark and cyber laws to prevent further misuse of the TTD identity. The temple administration has also urged devotees to remain cautious and use only official channels for booking darshan tickets, accommodation and other services.
In another action, the TTD Vigilance department reportedly foiled an attempt by a broker group trying to secure rooms at the Central Reception Office (CRO) in Tirumala using fake identity documents. The incident exposed another method being used by fraudulent operators to manipulate the temple’s booking system. The Vigilance team is investigating the matter and taking steps to identify those involved in the alleged malpractice.
With increasing dependence on digital bookings, authorities have advised devotees to verify websites and avoid making payments through unknown links or unofficial platforms. The latest crackdown highlights the growing challenge of cyber fraud in religious tourism, where fake online services exploit the faith and urgency of devotees.
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