Hyderabad: Cybercrime police on Monday reported that a Kachiguda resident lost Rs 2,42,488 in a fake cruise booking scam involving fraudulent permits and WhatsApp-based extortion.
On December 26, 2025, the victim found a website offering cruise packages to Kochi, Lakshadweep, and Mumbai. Believing the site was genuine, he booked a cruise for four people and transferred Rs 23,680.
Soon after, fraudsters posing as Cordelia customer care agents demanded more payments for permit letters, child fares, and additional charges. They blamed technical issues and promised refunds while pressuring him into repeated transfers.
They later cancelled the booking without reason and asked for Rs 48,500 as a cancellation charge. The victim never received any refund.
According to investigators, the scammers relied heavily on WhatsApp and tricked the victim using fake payment failure claims fake cruise booking scam.
Public urged to avoid unofficial cruise sites
Cybercrime officials advised citizens to book cruises only through official websites or authorised agents. They warned against trusting WhatsApp-based support numbers or refund promises and recommended avoiding staggered payments.
Victims of online fraud should report cases immediately via the 1930 helpline, the cybercrime.gov.in portal, or call 8712665171 in emergencies.