Online Cruise Booking Fraud Costs Victim ₹2.42 Lakhs

Hyderabad, Jan. 5 (Maxim News):  An online cruise journey booking turned into a costly cyber fraud after a man lost ₹2.42 lakh to fraudsters while trying to book tickets through a fake website.

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According to the complaint, the victim searched on Google on December 26 to book a cruise journey from Kochi to Lakshadweep and Mumbai. During the search, he accessed a fake website, believing it to be genuine. He initially booked four tickets and paid ₹23,680.

Hyderabad police warn against fake cruise booking websites

Later, the fraudsters contacted him and claimed additional payments were required for Lakshadweep permit letters and children charges. Trusting their claims, the victim transferred money in several instalments.

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Meanwhile, the cybercriminals cited payment failures and technical issues as excuses to demand more money. When the victim asked for a refund, the fraudsters allegedly told him that cancellation charges must be paid first.

They continued to pressure him through WhatsApp messages. Eventually, the victim realised he had been cheated after losing a total of ₹2,42,488 and approached the police.

Responding to the incident, Hyderabad Commissioner of Police Sajjannar issued an alert to the public through a WhatsApp channel.

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He advised people to book cruise packages only through official websites or authorised travel agents. He also warned citizens not to trust repeated payment requests made in the name of technical issues.

The police commissioner further cautioned that fraudsters often pose as customer care executives and contact victims via WhatsApp calls. He clarified that genuine companies do not ask customers to pay cancellation charges in advance to process refunds.

Police urged victims of cyber fraud to report incidents immediately. Complaints can be lodged by calling the 1930 cyber crime helpline or by sending details to the WhatsApp number 87126 65171.

Authorities reiterated that early reporting increases the chances of recovery and helps prevent similar frauds.

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Public Advisory:

• Always book cruise packages only through the official website or authorized travel agents of the service provider.
• Be cautious of websites found through search results or advertisements that ask for advance payments in multiple installments.
• Do not make payments for permit letters, children charges, or add-ons unless they are clearly mentioned in the official booking confirmation.
• Never trust claims of technical issues, payment failures, or assured refunds used to demand repeated payments.
• Genuine companies do not demand cancellation charges upfront to process refunds.
• Verify customer care numbers from the official website only and avoid relying on WhatsApp communications.
• Report cyber frauds immediately on 1930 helpline or www.cybercrime.gov.in
• In case of any emergency of cyber frauds please call or WhatsApp 8712665171.

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