By Rayan Malhotra


There is a growing preference for shopping online owing to its convenience and attractive discounts. Around 66 per cent of shoppers in India are drawn to these deals as per a recent survey by McAfee. However, this has also given cybercriminals opportunities to target customers.


Moreover, McAfee survey also revealed the growing concern over deep fake scams in India. Criminals are creating fake websites that resemble trusted platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. These sites offer discounts of up to 99 per cent, luring shoppers in.


During the festive season, McAfee blocked 24,000 harmful URLs. The rise in AI-driven scams has made consumers more worried. This year, 78 per cent of shoppers are more concerned about online fraud than they were last year. Fraudsters are using AI to build convincing fake websites and even fake celebrity endorsements.


Excitement over discounts is normal, but not all offers are real. It is important to stay cautious and know how to spot fake discounts to protect your money and personal information.


Unusually High Discounts


Have you ever seen a smartphone worth Rs 50,000 being sold for just Rs 5,000? It sounds like an unbelievable bargain, but chances are, it is too good to be true. Scammers use these unrealistic discounts to lure buyers into sharing payment details or personal information.


Before jumping on an offer, compare prices on official websites or trusted platforms. If a deal looks suspiciously generous, it is better to question its legitimacy than to regret later.


When Product Descriptions Are Unclear Or Overly Dramatic


Detailed product descriptions are often missing in fraudulent listings. Instead of specifics, these sellers use phrases like “Best quality guaranteed” or “Limited time only” to draw attention. In contrast, genuine sellers provide all necessary details, including specifications, warranty information, and return policies.


Mismatches between images and descriptions are a major warning sign. For example, a product might appear to be a luxury item, but its description could lack important details. Such inconsistencies are deliberate. Scammers depend on buyers making quick, uninformed decisions without closely reviewing the information provided.


Beware Of Suspicious Links & QR Codes


Links and QR codes shared through emails, social media, or apps like WhatsApp can lead to trouble. Clicking on them might redirect you to phishing websites or download malware onto your device. The same goes for downloading images or videos from unknown sources — they could carry harmful software.


Hovering over links before clicking is a simple way to spot irregularities. Legitimate links align with official domains, so if something seems off, avoid it. As for QR codes, always verify the source before scanning.


Two-Step Authentication For Added Security


Online transaction security is incredibly important and should not be ignored at any cost. Implementing a two-step verification process is important to safeguard your payments. This method entails an additional layer of confirmation, such as using a one-time password (OTP) or verifying via biometrics, to prevent unauthorized transactions.


This is especially crucial when it comes to NFC payments. Using this function can help prevent fraud, and taking this measure can significantly protect your assets in the long run.


Impersonation Scams


Impersonation scams often strike when least expected. A message from a “loved one” claiming to be in financial trouble or offering an unbelievable deal might not be genuine. Apps like WhatsApp are frequently exploited for such fraud.


When faced with such messages, do not rush. Call the person to verify their identity or ask questions only they can answer. Never share sensitive information unless you’re certain about the sender.


Missing Fine Print


Real discount offers come with clear terms and conditions. These details might specify eligible products, usage limits, or validity periods. Fraudulent offers often skip this step, presenting deals that seem overly simple and unrestricted.


Before redeeming a discount, review the fine print carefully. If the offer lacks transparency, consider it a warning sign. Legitimate businesses prioritize clarity in their promotions.


Grammar & Spelling Errors


Professional companies invest in high-quality promotional material. Scammers, however, often produce messages riddled with grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. It is an easy giveaway.


Look out for odd phrasing or typos in emails and advertisements. For example, an email from “Amzon” instead of “Amazon” is clearly a scam. Such errors often indicate fraudulent intent, so proceed cautiously.


Third-Party Validation


Reputable companies do not just rely on their word — they have third-party endorsements or certifications to back their claims. Secure websites display SSL certificates (look for “https://”), and authentic offers often come with customer reviews or media coverage.


If a deal appears on a platform without external validation, it is best to dig deeper. A quick online search can reveal whether others have had positive or negative experiences with the seller.


Scams are constantly evolving. With each day, they become more sophisticated. Staying updated and alert is your best defence against falling prey to such schemes. Offers that seem too good to be true often are, so take the time to examine product descriptions thoroughly. Always verify the credibility of any links or deals before proceeding.


A little caution while shopping online goes a long way. Taking just a moment to pause and review can help you avoid trouble later. Prioritize security when you shop — it’s far more important than convenience.


(The author is the Founder & CEO, NeoFinity)


Disclaimer: The opinions, beliefs, and views expressed by the various authors and forum participants on this website are personal and do not reflect the opinions, beliefs, and views of ABP Network Pvt. Ltd.