Online Shopping Scams: Beware of fake websites and fake offers in the festive season, experts give 6 important tips

Online Shopping Scams Surge During Festive Sales: Experts Share 6 Crucial Tips to Stay Safe

With the festive season just around the corner, online shopping platforms and retail stores are gearing up with massive discount offers and attractive deals. While these festive sales bring exciting opportunities for consumers to save big, they also open the door for cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting shoppers. Experts warn that online shopping scams peak during this period, making it essential for buyers to exercise caution.

Why Festive Season Scams Are on the Rise

Cybersecurity specialists note that scammers take advantage of the increased shopping activity by creating fake websites, sending fraudulent discount links, and setting up bogus customer care numbers. These fake portals often look strikingly similar to legitimate e-commerce sites, tricking customers into believing they are shopping from trusted platforms.

Once a user enters personal information—such as banking details, UPI PIN, or login credentials—fraudsters steal sensitive data and misuse it for financial gain. In some cases, shoppers never receive the products they order; instead, they lose money to cleverly disguised scams.

6 Expert Tips to Avoid Online Shopping Scams

To help shoppers protect themselves, cybersecurity experts have shared six key safety tips that every consumer should follow before making a purchase this festive season:

1. Shop Only from Official Apps and Websites

Always download and use the official app of a shopping platform or visit the verified website directly. Avoid using unfamiliar third-party apps or links sent over text messages and emails.

2. Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links

If you receive a promotional message, email, or WhatsApp link from an unknown number promising heavy discounts, do not click on it. Fraudsters use phishing tactics to lure users into entering their personal details.

3. Verify the Website’s URL and Security Certificate

Before making any payment, double-check the website address. Ensure it starts with https:// and look for the padlock icon, which indicates that the connection is secure. Fake sites often mimic real ones but miss out on these security features.

4. Beware of Unrealistic Discounts

If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Fraudsters often advertise products at incredibly low prices to trap unsuspecting buyers. Cross-check offers with the brand’s official site before making a purchase.

5. Rely Only on Official Delivery Updates

Delivery and tracking details should always be checked through the retailer’s official website or mobile app. Never trust links or calls claiming to provide shipping updates unless they come from verified sources.

6. Never Share Banking Details or UPI PIN

Your banking credentials, OTPs, and UPI PIN should remain confidential. No legitimate shopping platform or delivery agent will ever ask for this information. Sharing these details could result in an empty bank account within minutes.

Additional Safety Practices

Apart from the six primary tips, experts also recommend:

• Avoiding public Wi-Fi for online transactions, as open networks are vulnerable to hacking.

• Using prepaid credit cards or wallets with limited balances to reduce potential losses in case of fraud.

One Mistake Could Cost You Everything

Experts stress that even a single careless click during festive sales can lead to massive financial losses. Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it harder to distinguish between genuine and fraudulent offers. Therefore, adopting preventive measures and staying alert is the only way to ensure a safe and smooth shopping experience.

Final Word

This festive season, while the excitement of sales and discounts is at its peak, so is the risk of scams. By following these expert-recommended safety tips, consumers can protect themselves from fraud and enjoy a secure shopping experience. A little caution can go a long way in ensuring that your celebrations remain joyful and scam-free.