How to Detect and Avoid Online Shopping Scams This Festival Season
Experts warn that fake websites, bogus ads and fraudulent payment requests are surging, urging shoppers to verify sellers and use official apps.
The GSMA India Consumer Scam Report 2026 revealed that 12 % of Indian respondents were scammed in the past year, with online shopping fraud accounting for 33 % of cases. Authorities and legal experts stress that deceptive sites often mimic legitimate brands and lure buyers with steep discounts, while fraudsters may pose as customer-care agents to extract payment details. Consumers should rely on official retailer apps or websites, verify seller information, and avoid sharing one-time passwords or one outlet PINs.
Unsolicited cash-on-delivery parcels should be matched with order records before payment, and any suspicious activity reported via one outlet Consumer Helpline or the Sanchar Saathi portal. Downloading apps only from trusted stores and scrutinising permissions can further protect against data theft.
Why it matters
Online shopping fraud is rising, and following these safeguards can prevent financial loss for millions of consumers.
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