The festive season is upon us. This time is associated with lights, moments with our loved ones, and also, the festive frenzy shopping. However, this time also sees a surge in cyber frauds and scams which can dampen the festive spirit, apart from burning a hole in your pockets. It is thus crucial to recognise the common scams and how to stay safe from them.
Image credits: CyberDost I4C on X (@cyberdost)
Fake Websites
Scammers often create websites which look like prominent e-commerce sites. They offer “too good to be true” deals and create urgency with “limited time” offers. However, once an order is placed and payment is made, either the website vanishes or the consumer receives cheap or counterfeit products. This scam also occurs on social media where scammers posing as sellers offer products at unbelievable prices on their social media accounts. Once an unsuspecting customer makes the purchase, their accounts disappear.
Image credits: Gurugram Cyber Police on X (@cyberpoliceggn)
How to spot a fake website?
- The URL is misspelled or it does not have the https:// before the address.
- Offers seem too good to be true.
- Reviews seem fake and the products are not properly mentioned or they have spelling errors in them.
- Messages such as “Delivery cancelled, requires verification” or “Account suspended” shared. Sometimes, the messages also request sharing financial or personal information.
- You should use phishing filters on your browser.
False Urgency Scams
This scam involves the fraudster sending messages about limited time offers, flash sales, or fake delivery issues, pressuring consumers to act quickly. Fraudulent links may claim a package is “on hold” or that immediate payment is needed to confirm delivery. In a rush, victims may share personal details or make payments on fake websites, leading to financial loss or data theft. Such scams exploit emotions like fear and excitement to trick users during busy shopping seasons.
How to avoid this scam?
- Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited texts or emails.
- Verify offers directly on official apps or websites.
- Never share OTPs or payment details over calls or links.
- Track deliveries only through trusted e-commerce portals.
Image credits: CyberDost I4C on X (@cyberdost)
Festive Offer Scams
Scammers reach out to victims saying they have won a festive season prize or offer and have to pay a small ‘processing fee’ for the same. Or they ask you to share your financial or personal details in order to send you the prize. They may also ask you to share One Time Passwords (OTPs). Such frauds can cause significant monetary loss to unsuspecting victims.
How to stay safe from such scams?
- Never share OTPs, bank details, or personal information with unknown callers or messages.
- Verify any prize or offer directly through the official website or customer care of the company.
- Be cautious of any message asking for a “processing fee”.
- Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unsolicited festive offers or prize notifications.
Image credits: CyberDost I4C on X (@cyberdost)
In case of a fraud or scam, you should immediately report it to the National Cybercrime Helpline by dialling 1930. You can also register your complaint online on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal by visiting cybercrime.gov.in.