Della Adventure Resort’s brand misused in online booking scam; police begin probe | Representative Image
Mumbai: In a shocking case of online fraud, cyber criminals created fake websites in the name of Della Adventure & Resorts, tricking tourists into making bogus bookings. The scam came to light after several customers contacted the resort’s main office, only to discover that their reservations were never recorded.
Tourists Duped with Bogus Bookings
An FIR has been registered at the Matunga Police Station against unidentified individuals involved in operating these fraudulent websites and mobile numbers, under the Information Technology (IT) Act.
According to the police, the complaint was filed by Snehal Keshav Mane, 40, Legal Manager at Della Adventure & Resorts, headquartered at Della Tower on Jame Jamshed Road, Dadar East, Mumbai.
The resort located in Kunegaon, Lonavala (Pune), is a well-known destination offering luxury stays and a wide range of adventure park activities. The company officially operates through three verified websites and only two contact numbers.
No Bookings or Payments Traced
The fraud unfolded on June 1, when the company’s head office received multiple inquiries from tourists regarding their resort bookings in Lonavala through various websites. However, after verifying these claims, the company found no trace of such bookings in its system.
The finance department also confirmed that no payments had been received to the company’s bank accounts against the said bookings.
Scammers Used Fake Sites and Numbers
An internal investigation revealed that unidentified fraudsters had created at least five fake websites mimicking the resort’s branding and services, which were used to extract money from unsuspecting tourists. In total, eight mobile numbers were being used to communicate with potential victims, further lending false credibility to the scam.
Real Estate Arm Also Targeted
The fraud extended beyond the resort. Two more counterfeit websites were discovered that falsely claimed to represent Della Township, the real estate wing of the company, through which money was also being solicited.
FIR Registered at Matunga Police Station
Realizing that the Della brand was being misused to financially exploit customers, Mane filed a formal complaint with the police. Based on the complaint, the Matunga Police have registered a case under Section 66(C) of the Information Technology Act.
