Phoney online platforms exploit buyers

Unregistered platforms lack regulatory oversight

ISLAMABAD:

The proliferation of online shopping platforms and social media outlets has undeniably brought convenience to citizens, offering a plethora of goods at their doorsteps with minimal effort through online orders.

However, the associated risks with online shopping remain significant, especially when dealing with costly items from unregistered platforms lacking regulatory oversight.

In Pakistan, numerous online shopping websites and social media platforms, including WhatsApp groups, Instagram, and Facebook pages, operate to provide a diverse range of products. While some are associated with credible brands, a substantial number of fake websites and Facebook pages imitate renowned brands, deceiving buyers by showcasing genuine products but delivering substandard or replicated items. Typically, these deceptive platforms request online payments through credit cards, and the delivery personnel, upon arrival, fail to display the merchandise or hand over the parcel until the agreed amount is paid.

Read  PHONE SCAMS TO DATA LEAKS: SECURING PAKISTAN’S DIGITAL FRONTIER

Once payment is made, they swiftly depart, leaving buyers dismayed with subpar items or replicas packed in the parcel.

Shaista Rubab, a working woman, shared her ordeal, stating, “I placed an order for two dresses on a popular brand’s website, and upon delivery, the dresses were opposite to what I had ordered, with poor fabric quality and embroidery.” She emphasised the difficulty in distinguishing between genuine and fake websites, urging authorities to take strict action against such fraudsters.

Murad Ali Khan, a government employee, recounted a similar experience, having received entirely different products than those ordered through a Facebook page.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 9^th, 2023.