How fake fashion websites are cheating consumers

Hyderabad: Recently, some individuals have fallen victim to dubious Indian fashion websites that promise stylish attire but instead deliver outdated clothing, all the while attempting to gain access to their customer’s bank accounts through deceptive means.

Websites like Pretty Petals, Vogue Vibes, We will fashion you and various other Instagram and Facebook shopping brands have cheated consumers.

The convenience of online shopping has revolutionised the way we shop for clothes, accessories, and other fashion items. However, with this convenience also comes the risk of encountering fraudulent websites that aim to deceive and scam unsuspecting shoppers.

Recognising and protecting yourself from these scams is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable online shopping experience. In this article, we will shed light on the tactics used by such fraudulent websites and offer tips on how to stay vigilant and safeguard your personal and financial information.

Anatomy of online shopping scams

Online shopping scams involving Indian fashion websites typically follow a similar pattern:

Attractive offerings: Scammers create websites with appealing images of fashionable clothing at unbelievably low prices. These images are often copied from legitimate websites or catalogues.

Misleading product descriptions: The descriptions of the products are misleading, promising high-quality fabrics and trendy designs. However, these descriptions are often generic and lack specific details.

Old or substandard products: When customers receive their orders, they are disappointed to find that the clothing is outdated, of poor quality, or products like cheap old sarees, old torn clothes, or completely different from what was advertised.

"I ordered a beautiful co-ord set from an Instagram brand for a reasonable price. But when it arrived it was an old 100-rupee saree. When I called the customer service helpdesk to return my order I was asked to give them an OTP sent to my phone as a link, That is when I realised it was a total scam" said Rashi Mehta a housewife residing in Yapral.

Phishing attempts: To compound the fraud, some scammers send customers OTP (One-Time Password) requests, claiming it’s necessary for payment verification or exchange. Unsuspecting shoppers may share this OTP, thinking it’s a legitimate request.

Unauthorised access: Armed with the OTP, scammers attempt to access the victim’s bank account and make unauthorised transactions.

"I once ordered from a new website but when my order arrived it was an old torn shirt with mismatched buttons. Upon calling the brand they asked me to follow a link. When I refused to do so the person on call started hurling abuses my way. No person working for a legitimate brand behaves in that manner. It was a total scam and I have been careful while shopping ever since" said Mithra Desai, an avid online shopper.

Tips to protect yourself from online shopping scams

Research the website

- Before making a purchase, thoroughly research the website. Look for customer reviews and ratings on trusted review platforms.

- Check if the website has a physical address, contact details, and a return policy. Legitimate online retailers provide this information.

Verify product descriptions

- Be cautious of websites with overly enticing product descriptions and incredibly low prices. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

- Look for detailed product descriptions, high-quality images, and legitimate customer reviews. Lack of specifics or low-resolution images can be red flags.

Use trusted payment methods

- Whenever possible, use secure payment methods like credit cards or reputable payment gateways. Avoid sharing OTPs or sensitive information.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

- Activate 2FA on your bank accounts and email to add an extra layer of security. This makes it more challenging for scammers to gain access to your accounts.

Report suspicious websites

- If you encounter a suspicious fashion website, report it to consumer protection agencies or the police. Sharing your experience can help protect others from falling victim.

Trust established retailers

- Stick to well-known and reputable online fashion retailers with a proven track record of customer satisfaction.

While online shopping offers immense convenience, it’s essential to remain vigilant and cautious when exploring new websites, especially those offering fashion items at unusually low prices.

Protecting yourself from online shopping scams involves thorough research, scepticism, and a commitment to safeguarding your personal and financial information. By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can enjoy a safe and secure online shopping experience, free from the threats posed by fraudulent Indian fashion websites.