Beware of Diwali Sale Scams That Target Quick Buyers

As the Diwali shopping season reaches an all-time high across India, fraudulent tactics that exploit the festive rush are also increasing. Many people look forward to bumper discounts and celebratory purchases, and that is when scams disguised as irresistible deals appear. Fake listings, tampered goods, and misleading discounts designed to deceive are becoming common. The festive spirit often turns into a chance for counterfeiters who rely on speed and impulse buying.

Online reports suggest that nearly one in three to four Indians has fallen victim to holiday scams. According to McAfee’s 2025 festive season research, 37% of them have reported actual financial losses. Surveys also show that 91 percent of Indian internet users receive suspicious shopping messages during this period, often promising fake gift card wins or limited-time offers.

Counterfeit Ghee & Food Adulteration

Ahead of Diwali, food safety teams across India destroyed large amounts of adulterated products. In Noida and Ghaziabad, over 1,100 kg of sweets were seized. In Jaipur, 350 kg of paneer and 650 kg of milk cake were found to be unsafe and thrown out. In Surat, nearly 10,000 kg of fake ghee was uncovered, made using cheap oils and harmful chemicals.

Fake E‑commerce Websites 

Scammers are creating websites that closely resemble legitimate platforms with minor alterations in URL spelling. They advertise aggressive discounts on popular items and drive traffic through social ads. Once payment is made, the seller vanishes. 

The Green Crackers

So-called eco-friendly crackers are being sold without proper certifications or even basic information about what’s inside them. A green label alone doesn’t make something sustainable. Many of these products come with fake QR codes and misleading packaging. Activists say the "less polluting" tag is often just a marketing trick.

Check Legitimate sellers

Even on large e-commerce platforms and during big festive sales, there are plenty of random sellers offering similar products at different prices. Don’t let a lower price pull you in too quickly. There’s always a chance you’ll receive a poor-quality product or nothing at all.

Spam Links and Promo Traps

Links sent via SMS, WhatsApp, or email may appear genuine, claiming you’ve won a voucher or that a "limited sale" is live. When clicked, they redirect to phishing websites that steal your personal info. Some also drop malware on your device. 

Basic Safety Tips

- Type the website URL manually or use official apps; avoid clicking on promotional links from unknown SMS or messages.
- Watch out for extreme discounts (like 90-99% off). If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
- Never share unauthorised OTP, PIN, password, or bank details in response to calls, messages, or emails.
- Use two‑factor authentication wherever possible to add an extra layer of security.
- Keep your devices updated with good antivirus software.

The festive season often brings pressure to shop quickly for gifts, home decor, clothes, and sweets. Scammers take advantage of that urgency. It is important to stay alert and make mindful choices. Support local and ethical brands, and buy only from trusted sellers who clearly explain what they offer.