These days, everyone prefers to do online shopping, and no doubt it is super convenient too. Not only does it save time, but it also offers benefits that help people save money.
But with the increasing popularity, scammers have found a way to do scams by creating fake websites and offering heavy discounts and benefits.
Online shopping scams range from fake products, missing deliveries or fraud. In either of such cases, getting your money back can feel like a nightmare.
But don’t worry! Here’s a simple guide on how to file a complaint against online shopping frauds and increase your chances of getting a resolution.
How to Complaint Online Shopping Frauds in India?
With the increasing number of reported cases, the government has launched different portals where one can register a complaint. But here again, a victim needs to choose the authentic website by checking the web address and URL.
Now, to report online frauds in India, one can follow the steps given below.
Step 1: Contact the Seller or Website Support
Before escalating the issue, try reaching out to the seller or customer support of the shopping platform.
- Go to the website’s customer support section.
- Raise a complaint ticket with details of the issue.
- Keep a record of emails, chat transcripts, and reference numbers.
However, if they don’t help, move on to the next step.
Step 2: File a Complaint on the National Consumer Helpline
If the seller doesn’t respond, it’s time to take legal action.
- Visit the consumer helpline website.
- Call 1800-11-4000 (toll-free) or 14404.
- You can also WhatsApp your complaint to +91 81300 09809.
- Do not forget to provide order details, seller information, and proofs (screenshots, receipts, etc.).
The Consumer Helpline helps resolve disputes between customers and businesses in India.
Step 3: File a Cyber Crime Complaint
However, if the shopping website is fake and you got trapped in phishing or payment frauds, then the best way is to report the complaint on the cyber crime portal by following the steps below.
- Visit the Cyber crime portal.
- Click on “Report Other Cyber Crime”.
- Fill in details about the fraud, attach evidence, and submit your complaint.
Cybercrime officials take online fraud seriously, so make sure you provide accurate details.
Step 4: Raise a Dispute with Your Bank
If you paid via credit/debit card, UPI, or net banking, you can ask your bank for a chargeback.
- Call your bank’s customer care and explain the situation.
- If you paid through UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, etc.), report the transaction on the app.
- Request a chargeback for unauthorized or fraudulent transactions.
Banks have strict timelines for processing disputes, so act fast!
Step 5: Complain to the E-commerce Regulator
The Department of Consumer Affairs regulates online marketplaces in India. If all else fails, complain with them.
- Visit the Consumer Affairs website.
- Submit a detailed complaint under the E-commerce Consumer Protection category.
This is helpful when big platforms ignore complaints or delay refunds.
Why People Get Trapped in Online Shopping Frauds?
Now, the question is why people get trapped in online shopping frauds.
Well, the biggest reason is a lack of awareness. Other than this, scammers these days use deceptive tactics that make it almost impossible to identify the scam.
Here’s a breakdown of why and under what conditions this happens:
- Unbelievable Discounts & Offers: Scammers use “too-good-to-be-true” deals to lure buyers.
- Fake Websites & Social Media Stores: Fraudsters create professional-looking websites with fake customer reviews and run ads on Facebook or Instagram to attract people by displaying cheap deals.
- Impulse Buying & Urgency Traps: They create a sense of urgency by mentioning a limited-time offer or deal or displaying flash sales with a countdown timer. This pushes buyers to act fast without thinking or verifying website details.
- Fake Customer Reviews & Testimonials: Scammers add fake AI-generated or paid reviews to build trust.
- Personal Data Theft & Phishing: Most of the time, these websites are not intended to sell something. Instead, they focus on collecting the personal data of cards that they misuse later for their benefits.
How to Avoid Online Shopping Frauds?
Prevention is better than cure! Here are some quick tips to stay safe:
- Buy only from trusted websites.
- Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
- Use cash-on-delivery (COD) when unsure.
- Always verify URLs before making payments.
- Check for HTTPS and opt for secure sites that encrypt your payment info.
Final Words
Falling for online shopping fraud is frustrating, but don’t lose hope! Follow these steps and take action immediately.
If you’ve faced a scam before, feel free to reach out to us by filling in the details in the form below. Our team will contact you to assist you with your case.
