Rail passengers using shortcuts while booking online tickets may face strict action, with IRCTC deploying a new AI-based algorithm to identify suspicious activity. The system analyses typing speed, login patterns and user behaviour to determine whether a ticket is being booked manually or through automated software. Accounts flagged as suspicious can be temporarily or permanently blocked.
Officials said the move is aimed at curbing touts who use illegal automation tools to secure confirmed tickets in bulk. With the new system in place, the chances of genuine passengers getting confirmed tickets are expected to rise by nearly 40 per cent.
Certified Cyber Crime Investigator Course Launched by Centre for Police Technology
More than five logins in 30 minutes may trigger ban
Under the new rules, if a user logs in or logs out more than five times within 30 minutes from the same ID, the account can be blocked for 24 hours. In addition, the IP address and the registered mobile number must originate from the same geographical region. If the locations do not match, the transaction will be halted midway.
Typing speed under surveillance
The AI also monitors the time taken to fill passenger details. If information for five passengers — such as name, age and gender — is entered in less than 4.2 seconds, the system will treat it as bot-like activity and flag the user. Copy-paste entries, auto-fill tools or script-based data entry may also attract scrutiny.
Officials warned that bulk addition or deletion of names late at night, frequent changes to the master list and unusually fast form filling will be treated as suspicious behaviour.
2.8 lakh accounts blocked in one month
Since the AI algorithm was introduced, around 2.8 lakh IRCTC accounts have been blocked in the past month. About 10 per cent of these belonged to regular passengers who unknowingly used shortcuts. During the same period, 1.2 lakh master lists were also deleted.
Railways have advised users to follow the standard booking process, avoid repeated logins and refrain from using any automation tools or scripts. Adhering to the guidelines will ensure smooth ticket booking and prevent the risk of account suspension.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
