Online Shopping Fraud
Pause, verify the request through an official channel and never act under pressure.
What is this fraud?
A fake seller or website takes payment for goods that are counterfeit, different or never delivered.
How does it happen?
Attractive ads and copied product images lead to a fake store that demands advance payment or steals card details.
Warning signs
Price far below market; newly created site; no verifiable address/return policy; only advance transfer; copied reviews; pressure to pay outside the platform.
How to stay safe
Check the URL, seller history and independent reviews. Use trusted platforms and protected payment methods; avoid direct transfers to unknown sellers.
If you are a victim
Contact the bank/payment provider, call 1930, report online and retain the advertisement, order page, URL, invoice and chats.
Evidence to preserve
Keep transaction IDs or UTRs, bank messages, screenshots, chats, emails, phone numbers, profiles, URLs, app details, and the exact date and time. Preserve original files without editing or deleting them.
Official reporting
For financial cyber fraud, call 1930 immediately, notify your bank or payment provider, and file a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal ↗. General technical advisories are available from CERT-In ↗.