Online shopping scams occur when fraudsters pose as genuine sellers on e-commerce platforms or social media marketplaces. They create fake websites resembling trusted platforms like Amazon or Flipkart and lure buyers with unbelievably cheap deals.
Some scammers use Facebook Marketplace, Instagram ads, or WhatsApp groups to promote fake offers. Once a buyer makes a payment, they either receive a low-quality product or nothing at all.
If you have fallen victim to such fraud, here’s what you need to do to recover your money.
If you paid using a credit or debit card, contact your bank immediately.
Request to block the transaction or file a dispute for a chargeback.
Many banks have fraud protection policies and may help recover your money.
If the scam occurred on Amazon, Flipkart, or another e-commerce site, report it to their customer service.
Many platforms investigate fraud cases and may offer refunds.
If your complaint is not resolved, escalate it on social media.
Posting on Twitter or Facebook with relevant hashtags and tagging the company can speed up the response.
The Indian government’s Integrated Grievance Redressal Mechanism (INGRAM) helps consumers resolve fraud-related complaints.
Visit consumerhelpline.gov.in to file a complaint.
Another official platform where you can file an online shopping fraud complaint.
Call their toll-free helpline number or visit the website.
If you lost a significant amount of money, file a case in Consumer Forum.
The process is quick, and you don’t need a lawyer to fight the case.
If the scam involves a fake website, identity theft, or large fraud, file an FIR with the cybercrime department or local police.
Visit cybercrime.gov.in to report online fraud cases.
Several platforms help in consumer dispute resolution:
Voxya – Runs social media campaigns and drafts legal notices.
ICRPC (International Consumer Rights Protection Council) – Helps in complaint resolution.
IamCheated.com – Helps victims report scams to companies.
Mouthshut.com – Allows consumers to share experiences and seek solutions.
Moneylife Foundation – Offers free advice on consumer rights.
Avoid deals that seem too good to be true. If a discount is unusually high, be cautious.
Check website URLs carefully. Fake sites often have slight variations in spelling.
Prefer Cash on Delivery (COD). Avoid making advance payments to unknown sellers.
Don't click on unknown links or popup ads. Scammers use these to steal payment information.
Research the seller. Search for their ratings and customer reviews before purchasing.
Online shopping is convenient, but it also comes with risks. By staying informed and taking quick action against fraud, you can recover your lost money and help stop cybercriminals. If you've been scammed, don’t hesitate—report the fraud immediately and fight for your rights!
