Cybercrime in E-Commerce Transactions: Risks, Laws, and Safety Measures

E-commerce has transformed the way India shops — from groceries and fashion to electronics and luxury goods, everything is now just a click away. However, with this convenience also comes a rise in cybercrime targeting e-commerce transactions. Fraudsters exploit loopholes in payment systems, fake websites, and unsuspecting customers, leading to financial and data theft.

 

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Common Types of Cybercrime in E-Commerce

1. Fake E-Commerce Websites

Cybercriminals create look-alike websites of trusted brands, luring customers with heavy discounts. Once the payment is made, either fake products are delivered, or nothing is delivered at all.

2. Phishing & Payment Frauds

Fraudsters send emails, SMS, or WhatsApp messages pretending to be from popular e-commerce platforms, tricking users into revealing banking details or OTPs.

3. Identity Theft and Account Takeover

Hackers steal login credentials of customers, gaining unauthorized access to e-commerce accounts. They make fraudulent purchases or misuse stored payment details.

4. Refund & Chargeback Frauds

Fraudsters order products online, claim false defects, and demand refunds while keeping the original item. This is a growing problem for e-commerce companies.

5. Fake Sellers & Counterfeit Goods

On marketplace platforms, unverified sellers list counterfeit or substandard products, leading to customer dissatisfaction and fraud.

6. Data Breaches in E-Commerce Platforms

Cybercriminals target large e-commerce platforms to steal sensitive data such as customer names, addresses, and credit card information, which are later sold on the dark web.

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Laws Governing E-Commerce Cybercrime in India

Cybercrime in e-commerce is covered under multiple laws, including:

• Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000

  • Section 43 – Penalty for unauthorized access and data theft

  • Section 66C – Punishment for identity theft

  • Section 66D – Cheating by impersonation using computer resources

  • Section 72 – Breach of confidentiality and privacy

• Indian Penal Code (IPC)

  • Section 420 – Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property

  • Section 406 – Criminal breach of trust

  • Section 468/471 – Forgery and use of forged documents

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What to Do If You Are a Victim of E-Commerce Cybercrime

1. Collect Evidence

   • Save all emails, messages, payment receipts, and website/app screenshots.

2. Report to Cyber Helpline 1930

   • Immediately call the cybercrime helpline number 1930 for financial frauds.

3. File a Complaint on cybercrime.gov.in

   • Register the complaint under “Online Financial Fraud” with full transaction details.

4. Inform Your Bank/Payment Wallet

   • Request to block or reverse the fraudulent transaction.

5. Police Complaint / FIR

   • File a written complaint with the local cyber police station, citing relevant IT Act and IPC sections.

6. Seek Legal Help

   • A cybercrime advocate can draft representations, liaise with investigating officers, and file petitions in court if necessary.

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Safety Tips for Customers

• Shop only from trusted and verified websites/apps.

• Look for “https://” and secure payment gateways.

• Do not save card details on e-commerce platforms.

• Beware of offers that are too good to be true.

• Use cash on delivery (COD) for suspicious websites.

• Regularly monitor your bank/credit card statements.

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Safety Tips for E-Commerce Businesses

• Implement strong KYC verification for sellers.

• Use AI-based fraud detection systems.

• Regularly conduct cybersecurity audits.

• Encrypt customer data and comply with data protection laws.

• Train staff and customers to recognize phishing attempts.

E-commerce fraud is one of the fastest-growing forms of cybercrime in India, affecting both consumers and businesses. While legal frameworks like the IT Act, 2000 and IPC provide remedies, the best protection lies in awareness, secure practices, and timely reporting.

If you ever become a victim of online shopping fraud, remember to act quickly — report to 1930, file a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in, and seek legal assistance if required.

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Disclaimer

This article is for educational and awareness purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, professional consultation, or solicitation. Victims of cybercrime should immediately report the matter to the official cybercrime helpline 1930 and file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in.