Fake Hotel Booking Racket Busted: Four Arrested, Over 500 Victims Duped Through 100+ Bogus Websites
In a significant crackdown on digital fraud, the Cyber Police of South-East Delhi have uncovered a large interstate racket operating over 100 fake hotel booking websites, duping unsuspecting customers across India.
According to investigators, the group had defrauded more than 500 people, siphoning off nearly ₹1 crore through fraudulent online transactions. The accused — identified as Sharup (26), Ekraar (27), Sohel (24) and Gopal Singh Karki — were arrested after a week-long multi-state operation.
Police said the gang created fake websites that closely resembled those of well-known hotel chains. They used genuine hotel images, fabricated reviews, and counterfeit payment gateways to deceive customers booking rooms online.
Payments made through these sites were redirected to bank accounts and e-wallets controlled by the accused. Soon after the transactions, the fake websites were either taken down or rendered inactive to erase digital traces.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (South-East District) Dr. Hemant Tiwari said the gang primarily targeted individuals making online hotel reservations in Delhi, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttarakhand.