Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU) has issued a public alert after identifying five fake websites operating in its name, offering services ranging from admissions to result processing. The university has warned students, parents and faculty to use only the official portal — csjmu.ac.in — and avoid lookalike domains that may be part of a fraud network.
University officials said the fake portals were designed to closely resemble the original website, using the same logo, photographs and interface layout. These sites allegedly displayed admission forms, result links and other academic services to appear authentic, raising concerns that they could be used to collect personal data, fees or generate forged documents.
The administration has flagged the five websites as fraudulent on its official platform and advised users not to submit any information or make payments through them. Authorities suspect that the portals may be linked to a fake marksheet racket, although no formal confirmation has been made so far. Verification requests received by the university from police in recent months reportedly triggered closer scrutiny, leading to the discovery of the cloned sites.
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Officials said that only police verification of suspected marksheets will establish whether the fake portals were being used to produce forged academic records. At present, the university has refrained from disclosing further details pending investigation.
Cyber experts note that lookalike education portals are increasingly being used to exploit students during admission and result seasons. Fraudsters typically register domains with minor spelling variations, replicate official content and create payment gateways to appear legitimate. Victims often realise the fraud only after failing to receive valid confirmation from the institution.
The university has urged students to check the URL carefully, avoid clicking on links received through social media or messaging apps and verify all academic processes through the official website. It has also advised against sharing login credentials, Aadhaar details or payment information on any third-party portal.
The matter is likely to be referred to cybercrime authorities for further action, including domain takedown requests and tracing of the operators behind the fake websites. Officials indicated that additional advisories may be issued if more suspicious domains are detected.
The development has raised concerns over data security and academic fraud risks, particularly for outstation students who rely on online portals for admissions and results. The university said strict monitoring will continue to prevent misuse of its name and digital assets.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
