Online fraud alert: Fake Guruvayur Devaswom guest house booking websites target devotees
Guruvayur: Devotees booking rooms online at Guruvayur Devaswom guest houses have been warned to exercise caution as online fraud targeting the temple accommodation system is on the rise. Authorities have reported multiple complaints in the past month from visitors who lost money after making payments through fake room-booking websites and links.
According to the Guruvayur Devaswom Police, several fraudulent sites are mimicking the official booking platform to deceive devotees. The matter has been brought to the attention of the Cyber Police for investigation, Temple Station CI G Ajayakumar confirmed.
When users search “Guruvayur Devaswom room booking” or “Guruvayur Panchajanyam” on Google, a webpage displaying an image resembling Panchajanyam often appears at the top. Visitors assume it to be authentic and click the “Booking” button. They are then directed to a WhatsApp number and asked to share details such as the date of stay and the number of guests.
Soon after, a QR code for immediate online payment is sent. If the payment is delayed, the fraudsters send persistent messages urging devotees to pay quickly to “secure” their room. Devotees familiar with the official Guruvayur Devaswom room-booking process, which never involves WhatsApp chats or QR code payments, usually exit the conversation. Others, unaware of the scam, fall victim and will realise the fraud only when they arrive at the guest house to check in.
A devotee from Thrissur recently escaped losing money after noticing suspicious details in the WhatsApp payment request. The QR code displayed the name Pradeep Kumar, a resident of Guruvayur, and a local bank account, prompting the person to withdraw from the transaction.
Police have advised victims who have already transferred money to file complaints through the Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, which will allow authorities to trace the receiving bank accounts.
Guruvayur Devaswom chairman V K Vijayan clarified that Guruvayur Devaswom has not authorised any third-party agencies or external representatives for online room booking or offering booking services. All devotees are urged to rely solely on the official Devaswom website, guruvayurdevaswom.in, for safe and legitimate accommodation arrangements. By selecting the “Accommodation” section on the official site, visitors can access accurate details of all Guruvayur Devaswom guest houses.