Meanwhile, the police also observed several messages circulating on social media platforms, fraudulent lures offering entry into the temple in exchange for a price. Several bogus social media accounts and websites in the name of the trust have also come to light.

This follows a typical pattern by criminals to try to cash in on national sentiment or excitement. In this case, it is the Mandir, but globally too, events like maybe a football World Cup, or a big-ticket music programme spawn a multitude of such rackets.

Poll

Who will win the Punjab Elections?

BJP 32.76%

AAP 43.10%

INC 24.14%

Submit

View All In Poll

Criminals are always looking to cash in on sentiment, emotions and desperation to be part of the action during a high-octane event as they know people are especially vulnerable at that time, looking for ways to get to a place or a programme/event.

Use a healthy dose of scepticism for any of these offers. Go back and check if trusts/organisers have a website. 

Call for information on legit website numbers and ask if they are indeed giving such an offer. Double-check if people are offering entry for a price if the place is already booked. There is no substitute for solid research and double checks. Finally, even gut feel and instincts are good, so pay attention. Raise red flags in your mind, so that alarm bells go off. Caution before clicking is the way to go.