Cybercriminals Exploit Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 with Fake Online Stores, Warns Kaspersky

As India prepares for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, cybercriminals are taking advantage of the event by setting up fraudulent online stores, security experts at Kaspersky have warned.
This edition of the Maha Kumbh Mela is considered particularly significant due to a rare planetary alignment, making it the most auspicious in 144 years. The event is expected to draw millions of devotees, including international attendees. However, cyber scammers are leveraging this global interest to deceive individuals through fake e-commerce websites, tricking them into making payments for non-existent products.
Jaydeep Singh, General Manager for India at Kaspersky, highlighted the growing cyber threats surrounding the event. He stated that cybercriminals stay updated with major global events and know how to exploit public enthusiasm. With emotions running high, many consumers may be vulnerable to scams. He urged people to verify online stores before making purchases to protect their identity and finances.
Kaspersky has advised consumers to take certain precautions to avoid falling victim to such scams. One key recommendation is to verify website authenticity by checking URLs, domain names, and customer reviews before making transactions. Consumers should also be cautious of unsolicited offers, avoiding pop-ups, advertisements, or phishing emails that direct them to potentially fraudulent sites.
Additionally, Kaspersky warns against sharing personal information on unverified platforms and emphasizes the importance of using comprehensive cybersecurity solutions. Reliable security software, such as Kaspersky Premium, can help block phishing sites and prevent malware infections, ensuring safer online transactions.
With cyber threats targeting this significant religious event, experts urge attendees and devotees to stay vigilant and adopt secure online practices to avoid financial losses.