TTD To Set Up Cyber Security Lab In Tirumala

TIRUPATI: The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams has initiated efforts to establish a dedicated Cyber Security Lab atop the Tirumala hills to counter the growing menace of online fraud and protect devotees from exploitation.

The move comes amid a surge in fraudulent websites offering fake darshan tickets, Srivari Seva and donor passes, accommodation and laddu prasadam scams, and cases of fraudsters impersonating TTD officials to cheat devotees.

TTD’s vigilance and security department recently flagged the spread of false news on social media, proliferation of fake accounts, and instances of insider misuse of sensitive information, all damaging TTD’s reputation.

Presenting the matter before the TTD trust board, its Vigilance and IT officials stressed that safeguarding pilgrims’ personal, financial and biometric data collected through booking systems, apps and portals has become a top priority.

“The rising incidents of cyber-enabled crimes pose significant risks to TTD and its devotees. There is an urgent necessity to establish an in-house Cyber Security Lab, exclusively for TTD, to monitor and mitigate these threats,” the Vigilance department noted in its report.

After deliberations, the trust board passed a resolution approving the proposal.

TTD chairman BR Naidu said, “This lab will enhance our capability to detect, prevent and respond to online threats swiftly. It will create a digital shield around TTD’s operations, ensuring that millions of devotees can access services safely and without fear of fraud.”

TTD’s Vigilance and IT wings, in coordination with cyber security experts and the police, are working on detailed plans for the facility. The lab will be equipped with hardware, software, and specialized tools for rapid detection of threats.

Officials said the facility would also secure TTD’s online services, strengthen infrastructure configurations, and build in-house expertise to address cybercrimes without relying solely on external agencies. Financial requirements for manpower, equipment, and infrastructure would be worked out and presented to the board for approval in the next phase.