Online shopping has become more convenient than ever. However, as the number of online shopkeepers is increasing, they are also becoming the goals of cyber scammers. These scammers are sending phishing SMS messages, creating fake websites, and even calling users, while pretending to be customer service representative from well-known e-commerce sites to share sensitive information.

In the light of this growing concern, under the Ministry of Cyber ​​Crime Coordination of India (I4C), the Ministry of Home Affairs, a public warning has been issued. The warning urges online shopkeepers to be vigilant from the scam link, disguised as fake shopping websites, fishing delivery messages and valid orders updates. “Online shopping scam alerts! Fake sites and fishing delivery texts are increasing. Don’t click visually. Purchase only on reliable platforms,” ​​reads a post from Cyberdost – the official handle of the government’s cyber security agency.

What is a shopping scam?

Scammers are using several methods to trick online shopkeepers in exchange for financial benefits. Some common moves include:

Fishing delivery texts: Scammers can send a lesson or email, claiming that your order is on hold or requires confirmation of payment. These messages include a link that gives rise to a major e-commerce site. However, after clicking once, it redirects users to the fake website designed to steal cards or UPI details.

Fake shopping sites: These websites mimic the form and experience of actual e-commerce platforms. Even they can be listed on the search engine with valid people. Fake websites offer attractive discounts or hard-to-fit products. But once someone gives an order and pays, the site either disappears or fails to give the item.

Social Media Advertisement: Scammers are also using platforms such as Facebook to promote fake stores or deals through sponsored posts. These advertisements, if clicked, often direct users to rejected websites that seek sensitive or financial information.

Payment confirmation scam: Fake SMS messages claim that your order may not be fulfilled and ask you to “verify the payment”. Clicking on these links can lead to theft of financial credentials or installation of malware on your device.

How to be safe while shopping online

To protect yourself from these scams, keep in mind the following tips:

Do not click with closed eyes: Avoid clicking on the link from unknown numbers or emails. If a message says that your order is delayed or required to be confirmed, always check directly on the app or website you used to order.

Use only official platforms: Always shop through the famous e-commerce platforms or apps downloaded from the official app store. Avoid deals shared through random links or forward messages.

Check the website URL: Before completing any payment details, make sure that the website is valid. You can check the URL and see if it starts with “and is not a slightly converted version of a popular site (eg,” amazon0n.in “instead of” amazon.in “.

Never share OTP or CVV: No legitimate seller or delivery agent will ever ask for your one -time password or card safety code. If someone does, it is definitely a red flag.

Verify the sellers and reviews: In particular when using low-finished platforms, check the vendor ratings and customer reviews before shopping.

Report the scam immediately: If you suspect that you have been targeted, call the cybercrime helpline on 1930 or report the event on cybercrime.gov.in.