Hyderabad Police Warn Fans Over Fake SRH vs RCB Match Ticket Scams
Hyderabad Police issued a warning to cricket fans after cyber fraudsters created fake IPL ticket booking apps and websites ahead of the SRH vs RCB match in Uppal.
Cyber criminals are targeting cricket fans ahead of the much awaited Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru IPL clash scheduled at Uppal Stadium on May 22. Hyderabad City Police Commissioner CV Anand Sajjanar has alerted the public about fake ticket booking links and fraudulent mobile applications circulating on social media platforms.
The upcoming SRH vs RCB match has generated massive excitement among cricket lovers in Hyderabad, especially with star players like Virat Kohli, Heinrich Klaasen, Pat Cummins and Abhishek Sharma expected to feature in the contest. Taking advantage of this high demand, fraudsters have reportedly launched duplicate ticket booking platforms that closely resemble the official ticketing partner District app.
Police officials said fake websites and cloned apps using similar colours, logos and designs are being promoted through Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and X. Cyber criminals are luring fans with claims of discounted IPL tickets and quick booking offers for premium seating sections.
According to the police, many of these links direct users to unofficial APK downloads or fraudulent payment gateways. Once users make payments through these fake platforms, they not only lose money but also risk exposing sensitive banking and personal details to cyber fraudsters.
Commissioner Sajjanar urged cricket fans not to trust unverified ticket advertisements or suspicious social media links. He warned that many fake applications are designed to look identical to genuine ticket booking services, making it difficult for users to identify the fraud.
The Hyderabad Police Cyber Crime Wing has started monitoring fake websites and suspicious online activity linked to IPL ticket scams. Officials also requested citizens to immediately report fraudulent apps, WhatsApp forwards or fake ticket offers through the cybercrime helpline number 1930 or by contacting local police stations.
Police officials appealed to fans to purchase tickets only through authorised platforms and avoid falling victim to black market sellers or unofficial online promotions during the IPL season.
