Indian Railways is bringing a major change to the way tickets are booked online. To stop ticket touts and illegal agents, IRCTC is deploying Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning to monitor booking patterns. This move aims to ensure that genuine passengers get a fair chance at Tatkal tickets without facing competition from automated software.
What activities will AI flag as suspicious
The new AI system will track how a user fills out the booking form. If the passenger details are filled in just 4 to 5 seconds, the system will mark it as a red flag. The AI will also monitor typing patterns to see if the user is typing manually or using a script. Other activities that could lead to an account block include:
- Use of Auto-fill software or scripts
- Copy-paste tricks for passenger data
- Repeated login and logout attempts
- Use of disposable email addresses for account creation
How will the system track and block touts
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and IRCTC will use advanced technical tools to identify fraudulent users. The system will monitor the IP address and device patterns to stop multiple bookings from the same source or via VPNs. If suspicious activity is detected, the user account can be banned for 24 hours or blocked permanently.
| Monitoring Parameter | Action Taken |
|---|---|
| Fast Form Filling (4-5 sec) | Account Flagged/Blocked |
| Script/Auto-fill Use | Booking Halted |
| Repeated Login-Logout | 24 Hour Ban |
| Fake User IDs | Deactivated (Over 3 crore removed) |
Future upgrades to the booking system
Indian Railways is replacing its 40-year-old Passenger Reservation System with a modern setup. This transition will begin in August 2026. A new feature on the RailOne app will use AI to predict waitlist confirmation with 94% accuracy, making it easier for passengers to plan their travel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if I use auto-fill for Tatkal tickets?
Using auto-fill, scripts, or copy-paste tricks is considered suspicious. The AI system may flag your account and could lead to a temporary or permanent block.
How many fake accounts has IRCTC already removed?
As per official statements, over 3 crore fake user accounts have been removed from the IRCTC portal to curb touting activities.