Diwali is one of the biggest shopping seasons in India, with e-commerce platforms offering attractive discounts on smartphones, electronics, clothing and household products. However, while customers look forward to festive deals, cybercriminals are also preparing new ways to target online shoppers.

Fake shopping websites, fraudulent discount advertisements, WhatsApp messages and suspicious payment links are commonly used to trick unsuspecting customers. A single careless click can expose personal information, banking details and even lead to financial losses.

Therefore, before shopping online this Diwali, it is important to recognise common digital scams and understand how to protect your money.

Be Careful of Extremely Cheap Offers

One of the most common tricks used by online scammers is advertising unbelievable discounts.

For example, if an expensive smartphone or electronic gadget is being offered at a discount of 70–80% through an unfamiliar website or social media advertisement, avoid making an immediate purchase.

Fraudsters often create fake shopping platforms displaying popular products at unusually low prices. Their objective is to collect payments without delivering the products.

Before purchasing anything, compare the price with the brand's official website or a recognised shopping platform.

Also, be cautious of messages such as "Only three items left" or countdown timers designed to pressure customers into making quick decisions.

Avoid Fake WhatsApp Messages Offering Free Gifts

During the festive season, scammers frequently circulate messages promising free smartphones, gold coins, shopping vouchers and lucky draw prizes.

These messages may appear to come from well-known brands or shopping companies. However, clicking on their links can redirect users to fraudulent websites designed to collect personal and financial information.

Never share your OTP, UPI PIN or banking password to claim a gift or receive a prize.

If a message asks you to complete an unknown payment or enter confidential banking information to receive a reward, treat it as suspicious.

How to Identify Fake Shopping Websites and Apps

Fraudsters often create websites that look almost identical to popular e-commerce platforms. Sometimes, the only difference is a slight spelling change in the website address.

Before placing an order, check the following details:

• Website URL: Look carefully for spelling mistakes or unusual domain names.

• Contact information: Check whether the website provides genuine customer support details.

• Return policy: Read the refund, cancellation and return conditions.

• Payment options: Be cautious if an unfamiliar website insists on transferring money to a personal bank account.

• Customer reviews: Look for independent reviews rather than relying only on testimonials displayed on the website.

Avoid downloading APK files shared through unknown links. Install shopping applications only through trusted sources such as Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Beware of Fake Delivery and Customer Care Calls

Another common online fraud involves messages claiming that a parcel is pending delivery because of an incorrect address or incomplete verification.

Customers may receive links asking them to update their delivery information or pay a small additional amount.

Clicking these links can lead to fraudulent payment pages.

Similarly, scammers sometimes pretend to be customer care representatives from banks or shopping platforms. They may ask for OTPs, UPI PINs or permission to access the phone through screen-sharing applications.

Always check delivery updates directly through the official shopping application. If you need customer support, obtain the contact details from the company's official website.

7 Important Ways to Stay Safe While Shopping Online

Following a few basic precautions can significantly reduce the risk of online shopping fraud.

1. Use official websites: Type the website address yourself or use the brand's verified application.

2. Avoid suspicious payment links: Do not make payments through unknown URLs received on WhatsApp or SMS.

3. Check website reviews: Research unfamiliar shopping platforms before placing an order.

4. Create strong passwords: Use different passwords for shopping, banking and email accounts.

5. Enable two-factor authentication: Add an extra layer of security wherever available.

6. Avoid rushed purchases: Do not let countdown timers and unrealistic discounts influence your decisions.

7. Never share confidential information: Your UPI PIN and OTP should never be shared with another person.

What Should You Do If You Become a Victim of an Online Scam?

If you accidentally make a payment to a fraudulent website or notice an unauthorised transaction, take immediate action.

Follow these steps:

• Contact your bank immediately and report the suspicious transaction.

• Request the bank to block your card or secure the affected account, if necessary.

• Call India's National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 to report financial cyber fraud.

• Register a complaint through the official portal: https://cybercrime.gov.in

• Save transaction IDs, screenshots, phone numbers and messages as evidence.

• Change passwords if you suspect that your shopping or banking accounts have been compromised.

• Remove suspicious applications and revoke unnecessary permissions.

Reporting financial fraud quickly is important because authorities and banks may be able to take action to prevent the money from being transferred further. However, recovery is not guaranteed.

Enjoy Diwali Shopping Without Putting Your Savings at Risk

Online shopping makes festive purchases convenient, but attractive discounts should never come at the cost of financial security.

Whether you are purchasing a smartphone, buying household appliances or ordering gifts for family members, always verify the seller and payment details before completing a transaction.

A little caution before clicking a link can protect your personal information and hard-earned money. This Diwali, enjoy the festive offers, but make sure your online shopping remains safe.