Business · India Bureau
Festival shopping? Guard against online fraud with these safeguards
As the festive season draws shoppers online, authorities warn consumers to verify sellers and payment methods to avoid falling victim to scams. Experts advise immediate reporting of suspicious transactions to financial institutions.
LSN India ·
The festive season brings a surge in online shopping, but cybercriminals are equally active during this high-traffic period. Consumer protection agencies across India are urging buyers to exercise caution when making purchases, particularly through unfamiliar platforms and sellers offering deals that seem unusually attractive.
Security experts recommend several key precautions before completing any transaction. Shoppers should restrict purchases to official mobile applications and verified websites of established retailers, rather than clicking links from unsolicited messages or social media advertisements. Verifying the authenticity of payment gateways and ensuring website URLs match official domains can prevent credential theft and unauthorized charges.
When deliveries arrive, consumers should inspect parcels thoroughly before making payment, particularly for cash-on-delivery transactions. Checking product condition, expiry dates, and authenticity against original packaging helps identify counterfeit or substandard goods. Keeping receipts and transaction records provides documentation for potential disputes.
In the event of suspected fraud—including unauthorized charges, failed deliveries, or receipt of counterfeit items—consumers should report the matter to their banks or payment service providers immediately. Financial institutions can often reverse fraudulent transactions if alerted within specified timeframes. Filing complaints with cybercrime cells and the Reserve Bank of India's Integrated Ombudsman Scheme creates official records that assist in broader fraud investigations and consumer recovery efforts.