Maha Shivratri is a significant Hindu festival celebrated across India and other parts of the world.
It is a day dedicated to Lord Shiva, and millions of people observe fasts, offer prayers and engage in religious rituals. However, with the increase in digital transactions and online shopping, scams during Maha Shivratri have become increasingly common.
Scammers take advantage of people's religious sentiments and use various methods to cheat them.
Fake Pooja items
One of the most common scams during Maha Shivratri is the sale of fake pooja items. Scammers sell items like rudraksha beads, sacred ash, and other religious paraphernalia that are supposedly blessed by priests. However, these items are often fake and of poor quality, making them of little or no value. It is essential to purchase these items from trusted sources only.
Fake Shiva Lingas
Another common scam is the sale of fake Shiva lingas. Shiva lingas are considered sacred and are widely used in Hindu worship. Scammers sell fake lingas made of materials like plaster of Paris or clay, and they often apply a layer of paint to make them look like they are made of stone. These fake lingas are sold at a high price, and unsuspecting devotees end up purchasing them. It is essential to purchase Shiva lingas from trusted sources only.
Fake donation scheme
Fake donation schemes are also common during Maha Shivratri. Scammers pose as charitable organizations or religious trusts and ask people to donate money for various causes. These scams are prevalent online, and people are often tricked into making donations to fake accounts. It is crucial to verify the authenticity of the charity or trust before making any donations.
Fake Tours and Travel packages
Fake travel packages and tour operators are another common scam during Maha Shivratri. Scammers lure people with attractive offers of visiting sacred places like Varanasi or Kedarnath and charge a significant amount of money as advance payment. However, these tours often do not materialize, and the tour operators disappear with the money.
Conclusion
To avoid falling victim to scams during Maha Shivratri, it is essential to be cautious and vigilant. It is advisable to purchase religious items from trusted sources and to verify the authenticity of charities and trusts before making donations. One should be wary of unsolicited phone calls or emails and should not make any payments without proper verification. It is also essential to report any suspicious activities or scams to the authorities to prevent further fraud. With a little bit of caution and awareness, one can enjoy the festivities of Maha Shivratri without falling prey to scams.
