Beware of Cyber Crime and Avoid Being Tricked During this Diwali Festivity Season!

In India and also across the globe Diwali is a time for celebration, family, and of course, shopping! As we engross ourselves in the “hustle” and “bustle” of the festivity; the Cyber Criminals and Scammers are also devising trick and identifying potential victims, through which they can make their fast-buck. Again, as people head out to find the perfect gifts and decorations, it’s important to be aware of online scams and crimes that can dampen the festive spirit. Cybercriminals are always looking for opportunities to take advantage of unsuspecting shoppers, especially during busy periods like Diwali.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe while shopping online this Diwali:

Don’t Fall for Fake Diwali Deals:

• The Trick: Scammers create fake websites or social media posts offering unbelievable discounts on popular items like electronics, clothes, and jewelry.
• What to Do:
  • Always shop from trusted websites or apps. Look for secure “https” in the URL and a padlock icon.
  • Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. If a price is significantly lower than elsewhere, it could be a scam.
  • Verify deals by checking the official website or social media page of the retailer.
  • Use secure payment methods like UPI, net banking with two-factor authentication, or credit cards. Avoid cash-on-delivery for high-value purchases.

Beware of Gift Voucher/Card Scams:

• The Trick: Scammers may impersonate friends or family, claiming they need help buying gift cards urgently for Diwali gifts. They might ask you to share the gift card code, leaving you with no gift and an empty wallet.
• What to Do:
  • Always verify the sender’s identity, especially if the message seems urgent or out of character.
  • If you receive a suspicious request, call the person directly to confirm.
  • Never share gift card codes with anyone you don’t trust completely.

Spot and Report Phishing Attempts:

• The Trick: You might receive SMS messages or emails claiming there’s a problem with your bank account, delivery, or online order. They’ll try to trick you into clicking a link that leads to a fake website designed to steal your personal information.
• What to Do:
  • Don’t click on links or attachments in suspicious emails or SMS messages.
  • Go directly to the official website or app to check your account or order status.
  • Report any suspicious messages to your bank or the relevant company.
  • If one has fallen victim, it also appropriate to report the same to “www.cybercrime.gov.in”

Monitor Bank Activity and Check for Suspicious Deposits (As also withdrawals):

• The Trick: Scammers might make small deposits into your account to check if it’s active. If they succeed, they may try to gain access to your account through phishing or other means.
• What to Do:
  • Regularly check your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions.
  • If you notice any suspicious activity, report it to your bank immediately.
  • If one has fallen victim, it also appropriate to report the same to www.cybercrime.gov.in

Stay Safe and Enjoy Diwali:

Collectively, one has to be aware that the cyber and online means are also equally available to perpetrators as much that it facilitates, we as users to perform shopping. By following these simple tips, you can protect yourself from online scams and enjoy a safe and happy Diwali shopping experience. Remember to be vigilant, trust your instincts, and spread awareness among your friends and family.