Palghar Cyber Police successfully helped a local resident recover ₹1,40,576 that was lost in an online hotel booking scam, officials confirmed.
According to the police, the complainant, identified as Mr Mandaviya, was searching for a hotel on Google when he found a contact number. Although his first attempt to connect went unanswered, he later received a call from an unknown person pretending to be a hotel representative.
The caller asked for booking details and sent a fraudulent link through a mobile message. As soon as Mandaviya clicked on it, money was fraudulently withdrawn from his bank account.
Realising he had been duped, the victim immediately approached the Cyber Police Station on 5 November 2025 and filed a formal complaint. The case was also registered on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCCRP).
Acting swiftly, the Cyber Police managed to trace and block the fraudulent transaction spread across several bank accounts. Investigations revealed six accounts that had received the stolen amount. The police then guided the complainant to approach the court for the release of the frozen funds. Following a detailed report, the court ordered the refund of the recovered amount.
Through coordinated efforts involving the Cyber Police, court authorities, and banks, the victim’s full amount of ₹1,40,576 was credited back to his account. A symbolic cheque was also handed over to mark the successful recovery.
The Cyber Police urged the public to remain cautious while using online booking and payment services. Citizens have been advised not to click on unknown links or download suspicious files shared through calls, SMS, or social media platforms. Officials also warned against sharing personal or banking details with unknown callers and encouraged users to verify contact numbers and websites before making online payments.
People have been advised to avoid responding to unverified advertisements on platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, or Instagram. In case of online fraud, victims should immediately contact their bank and report the case at www.cybercrime.gov.in or by calling the cyber helpline 1930 or 1945.
Palghar Police Commissionerate has urged citizens to report cybercrime cases promptly to help authorities act quickly and prevent further financial losses.
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