ISLAMABAD – As Pakistanis rush to get discounts during 11.11 Mega Sale, cybercriminals may be waiting to turn deals into nightmares for some with fake stores, fraudulent offers and online payment traps threatening unsuspecting shoppers.
National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has issued a fresh warning, urging consumers to think twice before clicking, shopping or paying. As millions of Pakistani shoppers hunt for top deals during 11.11 shopping festival, authortieis sounded the alarm over potential surge in online fraud, warning that seemingly irresistible bargains could leave unsuspecting buyers without their money or expose their sensitive financial information.
The warning comes at a crucial time as major online shopping platforms launch promotional campaigns offering substantial discounts on smartphones, electronics, fashion, household appliances and other popular products. But some scammers are using similar names to deprive people of their hard earned savings.
NCCIA urged consumers to remain particularly vigilant while shopping through unfamiliar websites, unverified online stores and social media pages advertising unusually attractive deals. The agency cautioned that cybercriminals could exploit the excitement surrounding major shopping events by setting up fraudulent stores, circulating misleading advertisements and persuading customers to transfer money before receiving their orders.
The cybercrime watchdog warned that online shoppers should not blindly trust advertisements promising extraordinary discounts, particularly when sellers demand immediate or advance payments. According to NCCIA, buyers must examine the credibility of online sellers, verify customer reviews and carefully assess the authenticity of shopping platforms before entering payment details.
The agency also released an awareness graphic highlighting how fraudulent websites can imitate legitimate e-commerce businesses to deceive customers. One example featured a fictional shopping platform offering headphones originally priced at Rs25,000 for just Rs7,499, advertised as a massive 70 percent discount. It shows how scammers may use unreal deals to lure customers into making purchases without checking whether the seller is genuine.
NCCIA warned that fraudulent shopping websites can expose consumers to both financial theft and the misuse of personal information.
As Daraz’s 11.11 promotional activities gather pace, shoppers are being urged to exercise caution over suspicious links claiming to offer exclusive vouchers, free gifts and extraordinary discounts. One common fraud technique involves creating websites or social media accounts that imitate well-known online shopping brands.
Scammers may advertise expensive products at exceptionally low prices, collect payments and disappear without delivering the merchandise. Another tactic involves fake promotional messages distributed through WhatsApp, SMS, Facebook and other digital platforms.
Such messages may falsely claim that recipients have qualified for special Daraz 11.11 vouchers, free products or cash prizes. Victims are then directed to suspicious websites where they may be asked to provide personal details, banking credentials, card numbers or one-time passwords. Consumers should remember that legitimate promotional offers must be verified through the retailer’s official website or application.
Avoid Advance Payments through JazzCash, Easypaisa
Fraudulent sellers operating through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and other social media platforms may also attempt to exploit the shopping rush. These sellers often promote expensive smartphones, electronic gadgets, branded clothing and household products at prices far below their normal market value.
To convince customers to pay immediately, scammers may claim that stocks are running out or that an extraordinary discount is available for only a few minutes. Some demand payments through JazzCash, Easypaisa or direct bank transfers before processing the order. Once payment is completed, fraudulent accounts may stop responding, block the customer or disappear entirely.
The recent advisory warns consumers against trusting unrealistic prices and demands for advance payments without first verifying the seller. The risk arises when money is transferred to fraudulent sellers without adequate verification or buyer protection.
Fake Courier Calls and Delivery OTP Scams Pose Additional Risks
Online shopping fraud does not necessarily end when an order is placed. Scammers may impersonate courier company employees and contact customers claiming that an additional payment, verification code or personal information is required to release a parcel.
In some cases, fraudulent messages contain links directing recipients to fake delivery tracking websites. These pages may be designed to capture banking credentials, account passwords or payment card information. Customers should never disclose sensitive verification codes to unknown callers or enter financial information on websites reached through suspicious messages.
Tips to cut the risk of falling victim to online shopping scams
Use Only trusted platforms and Purchase products through official websites, verified retailers and reputable shopping applications.
Unusually low prices and exaggerated limited-time offers are Red Flags.
Review customer feedback, store information and return policies before placing an order.
Use recognized payment gateways and avoid sharing sensitive financial information with unknown sellers.
Do not transfer money simply because a seller claims a discount is about to expire.
Keep banking passwords, PINs and verification codes confidential.
Report Fraud Online
Consumers who encounter suspicious online stores or fall victim to digital shopping scams can report the incident to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency. The public can contact the NCCIA helpline at 1799 or submit complaints through the official online portal, complaint.nccia.gov.pk.
Those who have transferred money to fraudulent sellers or disclosed sensitive banking details should immediately notify their financial institution to prevent further unauthorized transactions. Keeping screenshots, payment receipts, advertisements, website addresses and conversations with suspected scammers can also help investigators examine complaints.
