How to check for fake gold using your mobile? What to do if you get scammed? How to get compensation? Learn all the details..

Even after the implementation of hallmarking on gold jewelry in India, cases of purity fraud are still emerging. Did you know that if fraud is proven, jewelers may have to pay heavy fines and compensation to consumers? Yes. According to Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regulations, consumers have the legal right to seek compensation for their losses. This article explains the process for detecting and complaining about fraud, and how to obtain compensation.

How to Get Compensation
According to Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regulations, if a consumer is found to have a hallmarked jewelry sold to them that is found to be of inferior purity, they are entitled to compensation. This compensation is twice the value of the jewelry that has been tampered with. Suppose you purchased hallmarked gold of 22 carats (91.6%), but it was found to be 20 carats (83.3%) upon testing, you will receive compensation equal to double the value of the difference in purity (91.6% - 83.3%).

When purchasing gold, always purchase hallmarked jewelry and remember to obtain the bill, as these two documents are the most important documents for claiming compensation.

How to Detect Fraud
Consumers can have their gold jewelry tested at any BIS-accredited testing and hallmarking center. The testing center will provide a report indicating the actual caratage of the gold.

How to File a Complaint
If the purity is found to be low, consumers can file a complaint with the National Consumer Helpline using the BIS Care App.

BIS Care App
This is the official mobile application of BIS. It can be used to verify the HUID (Hallmark Unique Identification) number and file a fraud complaint.

National Consumer Helpline (NCH)
Consumers can call 1800-11-4000 or file a complaint online at consumerhelpline.gov.in.

Government Creates Consumer Protection Shield
The government has implemented several regulations to protect consumers from fraud:
Hallmarking of gold jewelry with HUID (a 6-digit alphanumeric code) has been made mandatory in most districts.
The bill must clearly mention the price of gold, the making charge, and the 3% GST.

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