Kerala Travel Mart Society Issues Alert on Rising Online Booking Frauds in Kochi and Kumarakom

The Kerala Travel Mart Society (KTM) has raised an important alert for travellers after multiple reports surfaced of tourists falling victim to online booking fraud. According to KTM, several visitors have been cheated by fraudsters impersonating hotel representatives, particularly in popular tourist hubs such as Kochi and Kumarakom.

Rising Cases of Online Scams Targeting Tourists

The warning follows a series of incidents where travellers were deceived through fake travel-agency websites, fraudulent messages, and misleading communication channels. In a number of these cases, tourists who had already confirmed their hotel bookings received calls or texts from unknown individuals posing as hotel staff.

These scammers attempted to extract advance payments, often under threats of booking cancellation or offers of fake room upgrades. To appear credible, they frequently shared forged ID cards claiming to be associated with the hotels.

KTM Urges Caution Ahead of Peak Tourism Season

KTM President Jose Pradeep emphasized the need for both international and domestic travellers to stay alert, especially as Kerala enters its busiest tourism months.

He noted that several tourists have already lost significant amounts of money due to such fraudulent activities. “Several tourists have complained of losing large sums of money. This has compelled KTM to issue a strong cautionary message,” Pradeep stated.

Travellers are strongly advised to verify any payment request by contacting the hotel directly using official phone numbers or email IDs, instead of relying on messages or links received online.

Hotels Also Advised to Strengthen Digital Safety

KTM has also urged its member hotels and resorts to remain vigilant. The advisory recommends ensuring that official websites, booking systems, and digital vouchers are secure and not susceptible to misuse by scammers.

Hotels have been encouraged to regularly monitor suspicious activity and to make guests aware of safe payment practices.

How Travellers Can Stay Safe

To avoid falling victim to such scams, tourists visiting Kerala should:

• Confirm bookings only through verified hotel websites or trusted travel platforms
• Refrain from making payments via QR codes or unknown links
• Contact the hotel directly if they receive any unexpected payment requests
• Avoid sharing personal or financial information over unverified communication channels

Kerala continues to be one of India’s most sought-after travel destinations, and with proactive measures from both travellers and hospitality providers, such fraudulent activities can be curbed effectively.