The Indian Railways has implemented a range of measures to enhance security in its reservation ticket booking system, aiming to address the issues of fraud and cyberattacks.

As part of these efforts, the Ministry of Railways has introduced Aadhaar-based One-Time Password (OTP) verification specifically for online Tatkal ticket bookings. This method allows for instant verification of user identity, which is particularly important due to the urgency associated with Tatkal bookings.

The implementation of this technology helps prevent the creation of unauthorized accounts and curbs the automated misuse of the system, thereby ensuring a fair distribution of Tatkal tickets among legitimate passengers. The initiative has reportedly led to higher availability of tickets for genuine users and has increased transparency in the Tatkal booking process.

Enhanced Cybersecurity Protocols

To further bolster its security framework, Indian Railways has established multiple application-level security measures. One significant enhancement is the deployment of a CAPTCHA system designed to thwart scripting attacks, brute-force attempts, and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. In addition to these measures, various strategies have been adopted to tackle vulnerabilities as outlined by the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP). A Content Delivery Network (CDN) has also been incorporated to alleviate static content load and decrease traffic on the ticketing website, optimizing overall system performance.

Advanced Traffic Filtering Solutions

Among the sophisticated solutions deployed is the use of anti-bot technologies, such as those provided by Akamai, which help to identify and filter out non-genuine users. This reduces risks associated with malicious activities on the online booking platform, ensuring smooth and secure experiences for authentic passengers. The Ministry of Railways has reported that their entire Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure operates in a high-availability mode, ensuring minimal service interruptions.

Robust Data Protection Framework

The security framework protecting the online ticket booking system encompasses industry-standard equipment, such as firewalls and intrusion prevention systems. Additional safeguards against volumetric DDoS assaults include collaboration with Internet Service Providers to deploy detection and mitigation strategies with a combined capacity of nearly 30 Gbps. Comprehensive measures involving Enterprise-level CDN, anti-bot systems, secure DNS, and Web Application Firewalls aim to improve customer experiences while effectively mitigating security threats.

Continuous Monitoring and Incident Response

RailTel has been engaged to provide dedicated cyber threat intelligence services, including Deep-Dark Web Monitoring and Digital Risk Protection, further enhancing the system’s defense against potential incidents. The central data center hosting the system is located in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, featuring rigorous physical security measures such as CCTV surveillance and restricted access. This facility holds ISO 27001 certification for Information Security Management Systems, ensuring its compliance with international standards.

Collaboration with CERT-In for Enhanced Security

The system is integrated with the Cyber Emergency Response Team of India (CERT-In) for real-time monitoring of security incidents and aims to establish proactive threat awareness using the “Madhu-Sanjal” honeypot sensor. This system helps monitor attacker behavior and informs the development of stronger defenses against cyber risks. The Ministry of Railways has emphasized that on-premises security teams continuously monitor security logs to identify and address any security breaches effectively.

Significant Outcomes in Fraud Detection

The ongoing security protocols have led to the deactivation of approximately 3.03 crore suspicious user IDs in 2025 alone. Regular audits conducted by CERT-In-empanelled Information Security Audit Agencies ensure compliance with security standards. Moreover, the ticketing system’s internet traffic is under constant observation by CERT-In and the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) to prevent potential cyber threats. As a part of its commitment to cybersecurity, a total of 376 complaints related to suspicious bookings have been filed on the National Cyber Crime Portal, and 12,819 suspicious email domains were blocked in 2025.

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