With the boom in online shopping, cybercriminals have found a new way to deceive consumers through fake e-commerce websites. Across India, multiple cases have emerged where buyers paid for products but never received them — and in many instances, their bank accounts were drained instead.
Cyber fraudsters are now creating fake shopping sites that look exactly like genuine ones. These websites often mimic popular brands, using similar logos, layouts, and color schemes to appear authentic. They lure shoppers with unbelievably high discounts and limited-time deals on mobile phones, clothing, or electronics.
Once a customer places an order and makes a payment, one of two things typically happens — either the item never arrives, or the site disappears altogether. In some cases, victims receive cheap counterfeit goods, while others find unauthorized transactions in their bank accounts.
Cybercrime cells across the country have reported a steady rise in online shopping fraud, especially during festive seasons and major online sale events when people are more likely to seek attractive deals.
Fake websites are designed not just to steal money, but also to harvest personal and financial information. Details such as your name, phone number, address, credit card, or UPI data can be used later for identity theft or phishing attempts. Once you share these details, scammers can easily impersonate legitimate sellers, customer care agents, or delivery executives to continue defrauding you.
Misspelled URLs: Fraudsters often use slightly misspelled web addresses — like amaz0n.in instead of amazon.in — to trick buyers.
No HTTPS Lock: Genuine websites have secure URLs starting with https:// and a padlock symbol. If you don’t see these, avoid making any payments.
Unrealistic Discounts: If a website offers 70–80% off on branded items, it’s a red flag. Such offers are rarely genuine.
No Customer Support: Fake sites usually lack valid contact details, refund policies, or customer care numbers.
No Verified Reviews: Absence of genuine product reviews or the presence of generic, repetitive comments could indicate fraud.
✅ Check the URL carefully before entering any payment details. Ensure the spelling matches the official brand site.
✅ Look for HTTPS and the padlock icon in the browser bar. Avoid sites with insecure connections.
✅ Avoid sharing card or UPI details on unfamiliar platforms.
✅ Choose Cash on Delivery (COD) when possible, especially on lesser-known websites.
✅ Verify reviews and ratings — both on the website and on external consumer forums.
✅ Avoid clicking on promotional links received via SMS, WhatsApp, or social media ads — they often redirect to fake websites.
✅ Report scams immediately at https://www.cybercrime.gov.in or contact your local cybercrime helpline at 1930.
If you suspect that you’ve fallen victim to a fake e-commerce site, take these steps quickly:
Contact your bank immediately to block your card or freeze transactions.
Report the fraud to cybercrime.gov.in with all transaction details, website links, and screenshots.
Keep records of all email confirmations and payment receipts as proof.
Remember, if an online deal looks too good to be true — it probably is. Cybercriminals are banking on your excitement and impulse during sales. Always take a few extra seconds to verify the website’s authenticity. Staying alert can save you from losing both money and peace of mind.
