Ayodhya: Cyber scam seeking fake donations for Ram temple busted

Ayodhya: As the grand ceremony of consecration of Ram temple in Ayodhya is approaching, concerns have arisen over explosive attempts to exploit devotees in the name of the temple. Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has issued a warning about cyber criminals spreading messages on social networks, asking for donations for the temple and providing QR codes for transactions. According to NDTV, VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal highlighted that the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, which is responsible for overseeing the construction of the temple, has not authorized any individual or group to collect funds. The fraudulent activity came to light when people received messages on social networks and telephone calls prompting them to donate to the temple. A person who received the call shared the number with VHP workers, following which an investigation began. The VHP also shared a clip of the audio of a recorded telephone call in which a VHP worker is telling a potential donor. The alleged scammer, as a response, requested a WhatsApp number to send the QR code of the donation. The employee explained to the caller that he was recording donors’ details for future invitations to Temple Ram. Although the authenticity of the audio clip cannot be independently verified, it reveals the disturbing tactics used by scammers. The alleged founder falsely claimed there was religious conflict between the Hindu and Muslim communities, suggesting that the donation was important because of the obstacles posed by the latter group in the construction of the temple.