Don't fall for the lure of 'cheap' offers this Diwali! Clicking on a single link could leave your bank account empty..

Everyone looks forward to online shopping and great discounts during Diwali. However, cybercriminals also take advantage of this period. They target people using fake websites, fraudulent offers, and malicious links. Often, in our haste, we click on links without verifying them, resulting in the loss of both our hard-earned money and personal information. Therefore, it is essential to keep a few things in mind when shopping online during the festive season.

Be cautious if a discount seems too good to be true.
If you see a 70–80% discount on an expensive smartphone or gadget on social media, do not trust it immediately. Many fraudulent sites claim to sell high-end products at extremely low prices. Their goal is not to deliver the goods, but to take your payment and disappear. Before making a purchase, always verify the price on the brand’s official website or a trusted shopping platform. Tactics like countdown timers or messages claiming "only 3 items left" are often used to pressure you into making a hasty decision.

Beware of messages regarding gifts or lucky draws.
Exercise caution if you receive a message via WhatsApp or SMS claiming you have won an iPhone, a gold coin, or a shopping voucher. Clicking on the links provided in such messages could lead to the theft of your personal data and card-related information. Remember, you never need to share your UPI PIN or OTP to claim a prize. If an unfamiliar page asks for these, close it immediately.

How to identify fake websites and apps
Fraudsters create fake websites that mimic well-known shopping portals. Often, there is a subtle difference of one or two characters in their URLs. Before making a payment, check the website’s address, the "Contact Us" section, and the return policy. Do not download APK files from unknown links; always install apps exclusively from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

Fraud in the name of delivery and customer care
Do not click on links in messages claiming that a parcel is stuck or that you need to update your delivery address. Obtain customer care numbers only from the company’s official website or app. Never share your OTP, UPI PIN, or grant screen-sharing access to your device to any unknown person. Always verify order details directly within the shopping app.

How to stay safe while shopping online:
Type the website address yourself or shop using the official app.
Use the platform’s secure payment system.
Check reviews before purchasing from an unfamiliar site.
Use unique and strong passwords for every account.
Enable two-step verification.
Avoid making payments under pressure—such as when faced with "too-good-to-be-true" discounts or a sense of urgency.

What to do in case of online fraud?
If you suspect you have been a victim of fraud, immediately contact your bank to have your card or account blocked. Change the passwords for your affected accounts and uninstall any suspicious apps you may have downloaded. Subsequently, file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in or call the 1930 helpline. Reporting the incident promptly may increase the chances of recovering or securing your funds.

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