Online shopping and e-commerce fraud: Consumers advised to verify websites before making purchases

KARACHI: In view of the rising incidents of online shopping and e-commerce fraud, an awareness workshop was held at the Karachi Press Club under its auspices, in collaboration with Daraz Pakistan. The session focused on emerging methods of online fraud, effective preventive measures, and the relevant legal framework to protect consumers.

The workshop was addressed by Daraz Pakistan Head of Customer Experience and Insights Ali Akhai, Karachi Press Club Secretary Muhammad Aslam Khan, former secretary Muhammad Rizwan Bhatti, and Secretary of the Press Club Skills and Development Committee Manzar Elahi Turk, among others. President of Karachi Union of Journalists (Dastoor) Nasrullah Chaudhry also attended the event as a special guest. A large number of Press Club members participated in the workshop.

Speaking on the occasion, Ali Akhai said that in the digital age, the growth of online shopping has been accompanied by a worrying increase in fraud cases. He highlighted common tactics used by fraudsters, including fake websites, bogus online stores, fake social media pages, non-delivery of goods after advance payments, misleading discounts, and theft of personal and financial data.

He stressed the need for consumers to verify websites before making purchases, choose trusted and reputable platforms and safeguard their personal and financial information. Ali Akhai said that online fraud is not only a financial loss but also a punishable offence, and action can be taken under cybercrime laws.

He informed participants that in case of fraud, approaching the FIA Cyber Crime Wing and other relevant authorities is a legal right of citizens. He also emphasized the importance of preserving evidence to support complaints and investigations.

Addressing the workshop, Karachi Press Club Secretary Muhammad Aslam Khan said that journalists need to protect themselves from online fraud in the digital era and also have a responsibility to spread accurate and credible awareness among the public. He said that organising such informative and practical workshops would remain a priority of the Karachi Press Club to enhance the professional skills of its members and help them deal with modern challenges.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026