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Kerala Police Issues Urgent Warning Against Fake Online Festival Shopping Scams
- •Kerala Police has warned the public against fake festival sale offers and online shopping scams ahead of the festive season.
- •Shoppers are advised to verify website links carefully, as fraudulent sites often use names with minor spelling variations to mimic popular platforms.
- •Citizens should avoid clicking on promotional links received via WhatsApp, Telegram, SMS, or social media promising unrealistic discounts.
- •Always make purchases through official applications or by typing the website address directly into the browser, ensuring the URL begins with https and displays a padlock symbol.
- •Never share banking details, passwords, or OTPs, and report any online fraud immediately to the cybercrime helpline at 1930 or via www.cybercrime.gov.in.
Key Questions Answered
Kerala Police advise online shoppers to carefully check website address spellings, avoid suspicious links from social media or messaging apps, and ensure websites begin with "https://" and display a padlock symbol. Consumers should use official applications or type URLs directly into browsers, refrain from entering banking details on unfamiliar platforms, and never share OTPs or respond to fake customer care calls.
Individuals who fall victim to online financial fraud should immediately report the incident by calling the national cybercrime helpline at 1930 or by filing a formal complaint through the official portal at www.cybercrime.gov.in.
Fraudsters create fake social media pages, advertisements, and websites with minor spelling variations resembling popular shopping platforms to deceive unsuspecting buyers. They lure victims by advertising expensive items at unusually low prices, creating a false sense of urgency, and tricking them into transferring money or sharing credentials.