By Rishita Gangrade | Agni Patrika
The rise of e-commerce platforms has made shopping easier, faster, and more convenient than ever before. However, this digital boom has also led to a sharp increase in online shopping frauds, catching many consumers off guard. From fake websites to misleading ads and payment scams, cybercriminals are exploiting technology to trick unsuspecting buyers.
The Growing Threat of Online Shopping Frauds
According to the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), thousands of online fraud cases are reported every month, with many more going unreported. The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) receives a rising number of complaints related to:
- Fake e-commerce websites mimicking trusted brandsSellers not delivering the products after payment.
- Receiving counterfeit, damaged, or wrong items.
- Payment gateway redirections to scam pages.
- Fraudulent sellers on social media platforms and third-party apps.
In 2024 alone, cybercrime in e-commerce accounted for over ₹300 crore in consumer losses across India.
Common Types of Online Shopping Frauds
- Fake E-commerce Websites: Scammers create websites that closely resemble popular shopping sites. They offer heavy discounts to lure customers and disappear after collecting payments.
- Social media scam: Fraudulent sellers use Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp to promote attractive deals. Often, there’s no product delivery or refund.
- Non-Delivery or Wrong Delivery Scams: You place an order and either receive nothing or get a low-quality or unrelated product.
- Phishing Links and Payment Gateways: Clicking on suspicious links can lead to fake payment pages that steal your debit/credit card or UPI information.
- Malicious Apps: Fake shopping apps available on third-party app stores can access your personal data once installed.
Source:
- Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)
- National Cyber Crime Portal: www.cybercrime.gov.in
- NCRB Report on Cybercrime (2024)
Real-Life Incident
In Bhopal, a college student ordered branded sneakers from an Instagram store offering 60% off. After paying ₹1,999 via UPI, she received a pair of old, used shoes. The store’s page disappeared the next day, and the money was gone.
How to Stay Safe While Shopping Online
- Buy only from trusted websites or verified apps:- Check for HTTPS and read reviews before making a purchase.
- Avoid clicking on random pop-up ads or messages:- Don’t fall for unbelievable offers or flash sales.
- Use secure payment options:- Prefer cash on delivery or credit card over UPI or direct bank transfers.
- Verify sellers on social media:- Check their reviews, followers, and page history.
- Don’t share OTPs or personal banking details:- Legitimate sellers never ask for these.
- Install antivirus and fraud-detection apps:-Stay updated with digital hygiene.
- Report scams immediately:- File a complaint on www.cybercrime.gov.in or dial 1930, the national cyber helpline.
Online shopping fraud is not just a financial issue but also a threat to digital trust. While technology has given us the ease of buying anything at the click of a button, it has also opened doors to new-age crimes. By staying vigilant and informed, consumers can protect themselves and others from becoming victims.
Remember, if it seems too good to be true — it probably is.