Everyone looks forward to online shopping and great discounts on Diwali. But cyber thugs also take advantage of this opportunity. They lure people through fake websites, fake offers and dangerous links. Many times, in haste, we click on links without checking and lose our hard earned money as well as personal information. So there are a few things to keep in mind while shopping online during festivals.
Be careful if you see too much discount
If you see a 70-80 percent discount on any expensive smartphone or gadget on social media, don’t believe it immediately. Many fake sites claim to sell expensive products at very low prices. Their purpose is not to ship the goods, but to disappear after taking payment. Before buying, please check the price on the brand’s official website or a trusted shopping platform. Countdown timers and messages like ‘Only 3 items left’ displayed on the website will also tempt you to make a hasty decision.
Avoid messages about free gifts and lucky draws
Be alert if you receive a message on WhatsApp or SMS about winning an iPhone, gold coin or shopping voucher. Clicking on the link provided with such message may steal your personal and card related information. Remember, there is no need to provide UPI PIN or OTP to get reward. If an unknown page asks for this, close it immediately.
How to identify fake websites and apps
Fraudsters create fake sites that look like famous shopping websites. Their URLs often differ by one or two letters. Before making payment, please check website address, contact us and return policy. Do not download APK file from unknown links. Always install apps from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Fraud even in the name of delivery and customer care
Do not click on the link in the message in the name of parcel stuck or address update. Also get the customer care number from the company’s official website or app. Do not give OTP, UPI PIN or phone screen-sharing access to any unknown person. Always check the order information in the shopping app.
Ways to keep online shopping safe
- Type the website address manually or purchase from the official app.
- Use the platform’s secure payment system.
- Before buying from a new site, check its reviews.
- Have a separate and strong password for each account.
- Continue with two-step verification.
- Do not pay under excessive discount or pressure of haste.
What to do immediately in case of online fraud?
If you believe you have been defrauded, call the bank immediately and have the card or account blocked. Change the passwords of the respective accounts and remove any suspicious apps if you have downloaded them. After this, file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in or call the 1930 helpline. Complaining early can increase the chances of the money being withheld.
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