Online shopping in India has grown massively from flash sales to festival offers, we’re buying everything from mobile phones to groceries at the tap of a screen. But with this growth comes a hidden danger: fake shopping apps and scam websites.
Many people in India have been scammed by apps or websites that offer crazy discounts, steal payment info, or never deliver the products. If you’re worried about getting cheated while shopping online don’t worry. You’re not alone, and you’re at the right place.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to spot fake shopping apps and websites, what red flags to look for, and how to stay safe while shopping online in India.
Why You Should Be Careful While Shopping Online
Scammers are getting smarter. They create websites or apps that look almost identical to big brands like Amazon, Flipkart, or Ajio, but they’re actually fake. Once you place an order or enter your card details, your money is gone and your personal data may be misused.
Some common risks include:
- Fake products or no delivery at all
- Payment fraud and loss of money
- Identity theft and spam calls
- Malware or spyware installed via apps
How to Identify Fake Shopping Apps in India
1. Check the App Publisher’s Name
Before downloading any shopping app from the Play Store or App Store:
- Look at the developer/publisher name.
- Trusted apps will be published by real companies, like:
- Amazon Mobile LLC
- Flipkart Internet Pvt Ltd
- Reliance Retail Ltd (for Ajio, JioMart)
- Amazon Mobile LLC
If the app is published by something sketchy like “Shopping India Ltd” or a random email address, it’s a red flag.
2. Read App Reviews Carefully
Fake apps often have:
- Too many 5-star reviews with generic comments like “good app”, “nice product”, etc.
- Complaints about undelivered products or scam payments in real reviews
Tip: Sort reviews by “most recent” and check what people are saying.
3. Check App Downloads and Ratings
Genuine apps usually have:
- Millions of downloads
- A large number of ratings (100k+)
- A realistic rating (not always 5.0)
An unknown shopping app with 10k downloads and a perfect 5-star rating? Suspicious.
4. Beware of App Permissions
If a shopping app asks for strange permissions like access to:
- Contacts
- SMS
- Microphone
- Camera (without reason)
Don’t install it. Legit shopping apps usually ask for:
- Location
- Storage
- Notifications (optional)
How to Identify Fake Shopping Websites in India
1. Check the Website URL Carefully
Scam websites often use:
- Extra characters (e.g., amazzon.in, flip-kart.co)
- Different domain endings (e.g., .xyz, .store, .top instead of .com or .in)
Always check:
- HTTPS (padlock icon in address bar)
- Correct spelling
- Trusted domain extensions like .com, .in
2. Look for “About Us” and Contact Info
Genuine websites provide:
- A detailed About Us section
- Proper contact info including:
- Business address
- Customer support number
- Official email ID
- Business address
Scam websites often have no clear contact or only a form with no real customer care.
3. Check Return & Refund Policies
Before buying, read their:
- Return policy
- Refund terms
- Cancellation rules
Legit websites have clear policies. Fake ones often don’t offer refunds or have vague, shady terms.
4. Search the Brand Name on Google
Before trusting a new shopping site or app:
- Search “[Website Name] scam or review” on Google
- Visit forums like Quora, Reddit, or Trustpilot
If you find too many complaints or no information at all, stay away.
5. Beware of Unrealistic Offers
If the website is selling:
- iPhones at ₹5,000
- Sneakers at ₹200
- Designer clothes at 90% off
…it’s too good to be true. Scammers often lure buyers with huge discounts, only to vanish after payment.
Extra Tips to Stay Safe While Shopping Online in India:
Shop only from trusted platforms:
- Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, Ajio, Meesho, Snapdeal (reputed names)
- Or known brand websites (e.g., boat-lifestyle.com, tataCLiQ.com)
Use secure payment methods:
- Prefer UPI, COD, or credit/debit cards with OTP
- Avoid direct bank transfers or shady payment gateways
Enable SMS/email alerts for transactions:
- Helps you track frauds in real-time
Don’t save card details on unknown platforms:
- Even if they offer extra discount
What To Do If You Get Scammed?
If you’ve already been duped by a fake app or site:
- Call your bank immediately and block your card/UPI
- Report the website or app to:
- cybercrime.gov.in
- Google Play Store
- cybercrime.gov.in
- Register a complaint at your local police station
Don’t feel embarrassed – many people fall victim to such frauds. Acting quickly can help minimize loss.
Real-Life Example: A Common Scam
Many people have reported getting WhatsApp messages with “limited time offer” links to websites like:
- shopxyz.store
- myntrastore.today
They look like real Myntra or Ajio pages, but they’re not. Once payment is made, nothing is delivered and the customer service disappears.
Stay alert. Always verify.
Final Thoughts
India’s digital economy is booming, but so is digital fraud. With fake shopping apps and websites increasing, it’s important to be aware, alert, and informed.
By following these simple steps, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from online shopping scams. Remember: if something feels off, it probably is.
FAQs
Q. Are all shopping apps on Google Play Store safe?
Not necessarily. Some fake apps slip through. Always check reviews, publisher name, and downloads before installing.
Q. How can I report a fake shopping website?
You can report cyber fraud at https://www.cybercrime.gov.in
Q. Can fake shopping sites steal my personal data?
Yes. Fake websites and apps may steal your name, address, phone number, and even card info.
