Bengaluru: Bengaluru Police have launched an investigation into a cyber fraud involving a fake website created in the name of the New Kumara Krupa State Guest House, where unsuspecting customers were allegedly cheated while making online room bookings.
Police have registered an FIR against the operators of the fraudulent booking portal after it emerged that cybercriminals had allegedly impersonated the government-run guest house, issued fake booking confirmations and invoices, and collected payments from victims through online transactions.
Fraud exposed after customer loses ₹11,000
The scam came to light after a customer lost ₹11,000 while attempting to book a room through the fake website. The victim approached the Central CEN Crime Police, who began a preliminary investigation.
During the probe, police traced one of the suspected fraudsters, who allegedly admitted involvement in the scam and refunded the cheated amount. However, since the victim did not pursue a formal complaint, further legal proceedings could not continue at that stage.
Recognising the possibility of more victims, police contacted the authorities of the New Kumara Krupa State Guest House. Based on a complaint filed by Karthik Santhosh, Senior Manager of the guest house, an FIR was registered under relevant provisions relating to identity theft and cheating through computer resources.
Fake website mimicked official booking portal
Investigators said the fraudsters designed a website closely resembling the official booking platform of the government guest house. The fake portal displayed room availability, booking procedures and payment options to appear genuine.
Customers were allegedly sent fabricated booking confirmations and invoices carrying the guest house’s name before being asked to make online payments.
Police are examining the website’s domain registration details, payment transactions and other digital evidence while coordinating with relevant agencies to disable the fraudulent portal.
Police urge caution while booking online
Officials said cybercriminals are increasingly misusing the names of government institutions, hotels and reputed organisations to deceive the public through fake websites and payment links.
This is the second such incident involving the New Kumara Krupa State Guest House. A similar fake booking website had surfaced in September 2025, leading to a case being registered at High Grounds Police Station.
Cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh advised the public to verify website addresses, domain names and official contact details before making online payments. Police have also urged citizens to report suspicious websites or fraudulent booking platforms immediately to cybercrime authorities.