Beware of Online Shopping Scams This Diwali: Tips to Stay Safe from Fraudsters

With the festive season of Diwali approaching, online shopping is booming, and everyone loves to grab those bumper discounts and amazing deals. However, as excitement for online shopping grows, so do the risks of falling victim to online scams. Scammers have become increasingly active during this time, designing fake websites that closely resemble legitimate ones, tricking unsuspecting shoppers into providing their personal information and emptying their bank accounts.

The scam usually begins with a forwarded link circulating on social media. You might receive it from a friend who saw an unbelievable discount on a product and forwarded the same link. This chain of forwarding continues, and many unsuspecting users fall into the trap, believing that it’s a legitimate deal. But not every forwarded link is trustworthy, and many of these fake sites are created to steal your money and personal information.

Scammers design fake websites that look almost identical to well-known e-commerce platforms. For example, if you’re familiar with Amazon’s website, the actual URL is amazon.in. Scammers may create a site with a slightly altered URL, like amazon.inn or amazoon.in, which can easily be missed by someone shopping in a hurry. Once you fall into the trap and make a payment, the scam is complete—you’ve become a victim.

Here are a few tips to stay safe while shopping online this Diwali:

1. Check the URL Carefully: Before making any purchase, verify the website’s URL. Legitimate sites will have their exact domain name (e.g., amazon.in or flipkart.com). Even a minor change in the URL can indicate a scam site.
2. Beware of Forwarded Links: Even if a close friend forwards you a link offering a huge discount, be cautious. Double-check the site’s authenticity before clicking.
3. Look for HTTPS in the URL: Ensure the website uses “HTTPS” instead of just “HTTP” in its URL. The “S” stands for secure, which means the website has encryption to protect your data.
4. Avoid Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True: Scammers lure victims with deals that are unbelievably cheap. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
5. Use Official Apps or Websites: Instead of using forwarded links or search engine results, go directly to the official website or app of a trusted e-commerce platform for your purchases.
6. Monitor Your Bank Statements: Keep an eye on your bank account for any suspicious activity after making online purchases. If you spot anything unusual, report it to your bank immediately.

The joy of Diwali shopping can quickly turn into a nightmare if scammers manage to steal your hard-earned money. Protect yourself by staying vigilant, checking website URLs, and being cautious with forwarded links. Tech experts recommend taking extra precautions while shopping online during the festive season, ensuring you don’t fall victim to fraudsters.