Avoid These Mistakes When Shopping Online for Raksha Bandhan to Prevent Fraud

Be wary of fake websites and deceptive offers when shopping online for Raksha Bandhan. Verify the website, never share your OTP or PIN with strangers, and immediately report any fraud by calling 1930.

Even a moment of carelessness while shopping online for Raksha Bandhan can make you a victim of cyber fraud. During the festive season, fraudsters lure people to fake websites and fraudulent payment pages by advertising massive discounts on *rakhis*, sweets, and gifts. The Indian Cyber ​​Crime Coordination Centre advises thoroughly verifying the website and payment details before making a purchase. Fraudsters often devise new tactics as shopping activity increases during festivals. You might receive messages via social media, SMS, or WhatsApp promising huge discounts, free home delivery, or products at incredibly low prices. The links included in these messages can redirect you to fake websites designed to look like legitimate stores.

Increased Risk of Fraud During Raksha Bandhan

Money is collected under the pretext of orders placed on fake websites, but the goods never arrive, leaving customers defrauded. Fraudsters may also attempt to steal banking or payment-related information during this process; therefore, one should not blindly trust an offer just because it looks appealing.

How to Identify Fake Websites

Carefully examine the URL (web address) before shopping on an unfamiliar website. Be alert if you notice slight variations in the name, spelling errors, or an unusual address. While secure websites often display "https" and a padlock icon in the address bar, do not rely solely on the padlock symbol. It is safer to manually type the website address or use the company's official mobile app.

Do Not Make Immediate Payments

Offers like 70% or 80% discounts during the festival may seem attractive, but if a deal appears too good to be true, verify its authenticity first. Never share your bank account details, card number, CVV, OTP, or UPI PIN with anyone during the payment process. Additionally, do not make payments at the behest of a stranger. Use payment methods that offer additional security features for your purchases.

Take immediate action if you fall victim to fraud.

If money has been deducted during an online purchase and you suspect fraud, do not delay. Immediately register a complaint by calling 1930. Additionally, file a complaint on the National Cyber ​​Crime Reporting Portal. Preserve all payment-related messages, transaction details, suspicious links, and records of any communication. Filing a complaint promptly can assist in efforts to block the funds or recover the money.