Online shopping has become an essential part of life in India, but along with its convenience comes the rising risk of online shopping fraud. Fake e-commerce websites, fraudulent sellers, counterfeit products, and delivery scams have left thousands of consumers losing money without receiving the promised product.
The good news is that if you act promptly, there are legal remedies and official complaint mechanisms to help recover your money. This blog explains in detail how to recover money from online shopping fraud, along with the complaint process, legal remedies, and safety tips.
Common Types of Online Shopping Frauds
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Fake websites/apps imitating popular e-commerce platforms.
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Counterfeit products sold under big brand names.
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Delivery frauds, where products never arrive despite payment.
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Phishing scams via links offering fake discounts.
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Social media shopping frauds through Instagram/Facebook sellers.
Steps to Recover Money After Online Shopping Fraud
Step 1: Collect Evidence
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Save order confirmations, transaction IDs, bank statements.
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Take screenshots of chats, emails, and seller profiles.
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Keep any delivery receipts or communication records.
Step 2: Contact the Seller or E-Commerce Platform
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If purchased from a reputed platform (Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, etc.), raise a refund/return request through their portal.
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If from a third-party seller or social media shop, contact them directly in writing (WhatsApp, email).
Step 3: Report the Fraud to Your Bank/Payment Gateway
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Inform your bank or card provider about the fraudulent transaction.
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If paid via UPI/credit card/debit card, request a chargeback/dispute.
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If through wallets (Paytm, PhonePe, Google Pay), raise a dispute in their support center.
Step 4: Call the Cyber Helpline – 1930
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Dial the National Cyber Helpline number – 1930.
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Report the fraudulent shopping transaction.
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If money was transferred recently, the bank may be able to freeze or reverse the amount.
Step 5: File a Complaint on Cybercrime Portal
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Visit cybercrime.gov.in.
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Select Report Financial Fraud.
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Fill in the details (transaction ID, seller account details, platform used).
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Upload supporting documents (screenshots, proof of payment).
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Submit and note the acknowledgment number.
Step 6: File a Written Complaint with Cyber Police
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Draft a complaint addressed to the SHO/IO of the Cyber Cell.
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Include all transaction details, seller information, and screenshots.
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Attach ID proof (Aadhar, PAN, Address proof).
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Request them to initiate action under IPC 420 and IT Act Sections.
Step 7: Approach Consumer Court or Legal Remedies
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If the seller or platform refuses refund:
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File a case in Consumer Court under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
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Approach the Banking Ombudsman for unresolved payment disputes.
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For high-value frauds, a cybercrime advocate can file a writ petition in High Court for urgent relief.
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Legal Provisions for Online Shopping Fraud
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Section 420 IPC – Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property.
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Section 406 IPC – Criminal breach of trust.
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Section 66C & 66D IT Act – Identity theft and cheating by impersonation using computer resources.
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Consumer Protection Act, 2019 – For e-commerce disputes.
How Cybercrime Lawyers Help
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Drafting strong complaints to police, banks, and consumer forums.
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Filing legal notices to e-commerce companies or sellers.
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Assisting in chargeback/refund process with banks.
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Representing victims in consumer courts or High Court.
Cyber Safety Tips for Online Shopping
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Shop only from trusted and verified e-commerce platforms.
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Avoid making payments on unknown or unverified websites.
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Check seller ratings, reviews, and return policies.
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Always use secure payment methods (credit card/UPI with buyer protection).
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Avoid offers that look “too good to be true.”
Recovering money from online shopping fraud is possible if you act quickly. Start by contacting the seller/platform, inform your bank for a chargeback, call 1930 cyber helpline, file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in, and if needed, escalate the case to consumer court or through a cybercrime advocate.
The faster you take action, the higher the chances of recovering your money.
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 call the 1930 helpline, file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in, and consult a certified cybercrime advocate for case-specific guidance.