Online shopping scams on the rise: Government cyber agency warns, know how to keep yourself safe..

As convenient as online shopping has become, the cases of cyber fraud related to it are also increasing at the same pace. Cybercriminals are trying to steal personal and financial information from people through fake websites, phishing SMS, and fake customer service calls.

Given this increasing threat, the Indian Cyber ​​Crime Coordination Center (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a public warning. In this warning, citizens have been asked to be cautious of fake shopping sites, fake delivery messages, and links sent in the name of order updates.

CyberDost issued a warning on social media.

"Online shopping scam alert! The growing threat of fake sites and phishing delivery texts. Do not click on any link blindly. Shop only from trusted platforms."

What is a shopping scam?

Online thugs try to deceive customers by adopting many tricks.

Phishing delivery messages: You are told through SMS or email that your order is on hold or payment confirmation is necessary. The link looks like a real website but when clicked, it takes you to a fake site, which can steal your card or UPI details.

Fake shopping websites: These sites look exactly like real e-commerce sites and can also be seen on search engines. They lure customers by showing huge discounts or rare products, but after payment, they neither send the goods nor make any contact.

Scam ads on social media: Sponsored posts are run on sites like Facebook to promote fake stores and deals. Clicking on these takes users to unverified websites that ask for sensitive information.

Payment verification scam: It is said through SMS that your order is incomplete, please verify the payment. Clicking on these links can steal your data or your device can get a virus.

Keep yourself safe while shopping online

Do not click on any link blindly: Be cautious of messages coming from unknown numbers or emails. If it is written that your order is on hold, then check by visiting the respective app or website.

Shop only from trusted platforms: Use only reputed apps and download only from the official app store. Do not shop from links received via WhatsApp or messages.

Check the website URL carefully: Before making payment, check that the URL starts with “https://” and there is no typo in it. Example: “amaz0n.in” is not real, the real one is “amazon.in”.

Do not share OTP and CVV with anyone: No legitimate delivery agent or company will ask you for OTP or card security code. If someone asks, it is a scam.

Check the seller and reviews: When shopping on websites with less information, first check the seller's rating and customer reviews.

Report the scam immediately: If you suspect that you have been a victim of fraud, immediately call the cybercrime helpline 1930 or lodge a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.