Cybercriminals exploit digital marketing tools and social media advertisements to lure shoppers into traps. They set up fake shopping portals with names resembling popular brands, often collecting advance payments but never delivering the products. Sometimes, fraudsters send cheap imitations or use stolen customer data for further financial crimes. The rise of flash-sale culture and influencer promotions has amplified this risk.

• Fake e-commerce sites offering heavy discounts on premium products.
• Counterfeit seller accounts on genuine marketplaces using stolen logos.
• Phishing emails imitating delivery companies or payment gateways.
• Unsecured payment links shared via text or messaging apps.
• QR code scams that prompt users to “receive cashback” but steal credentials instead.

• 💡 Always verify the URL — genuine portals start with “https://” and show a lock icon.
• ⚠️ Compare prices across multiple trusted sites; extreme discounts are often red flags.
• ✅ Check product reviews, seller ratings, and delivery timelines before purchase.
• 📉 Use cash-on-delivery if a website seems new or lacks secure payment options.
• 🎯 Avoid saving card details or CVV numbers on unverified websites.

Do’s

• Buy only from verified sellers and official brand stores.
• Use secure payment gateways or UPI apps with two-factor authentication.
• Check order confirmation emails carefully — legitimate sites never ask for OTPs to receive payments.
• Use your own devices for purchases; avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions.

Don’ts

• Don’t click links in promotional SMS or emails promising free gifts or cashback.
• Never scan QR codes to “receive” money from unknown senders.
• Don’t share credit card numbers or OTPs over calls claiming delivery issues.
• Don’t make advance payments to individuals on classifieds without verification.

Fraudulent online stores often have recently registered domains, minimal contact details, and poorly designed layouts. Fake advertisements on social platforms direct users to these pages, especially during festive seasons or clearance sales. Before buying, use domain lookup tools to check the site’s creation date and always confirm customer service numbers through the brand’s verified pages.

• File complaints at cybercrime dot gov dot in and inform your bank of fraudulent transactions immediately.
• Provide order receipts, screenshots, and payment IDs as evidence.
• Inform the e-commerce platform’s customer support about fake sellers for swift takedown.
• Use grievance redressal portals or RBI ombudsman services for unresolved payment issues.

• 💡 Use virtual debit cards for online purchases to limit exposure.
• ✅ Regularly check your transaction history for unauthorised deductions.
• 📉 Update antivirus and browser security features before making payments.
• 🎯 Enable SMS alerts for every card transaction for real-time monitoring.

Fraudulent e-commerce sites rely on impatience and greed. Always research sellers, confirm official websites, and prefer secure payment options. A little caution today can prevent both financial and identity loss tomorrow. Read more digital safety and financial awareness insights at Indian-Share-Tips.com, which is a SEBI Registered Advisory Services.