10 tips for safe Diwali shopping

Whether you’re shopping for electronics, clothes, sweets, or home decor, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of Diwali deals. But with increased consumer activity comes a higher risk of fraud, substandard products, and misleading offers. These detailed tips will help you stay safe, save money, and enjoy a stress-free Diwali shopping experience.

🛍️ 1. Buy from reputed and verified sellers

• Offline: Prefer established retail stores or verified local shops. If you’re shopping from a street vendor or temporary Diwali market stall, make sure they offer receipts or some form of guarantee.

• Online: Stick to well-known e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Tata CLiQ, Ajio. Try to avoid unfamiliar websites unless you’re sure of their authenticity. If you’re unsure check if the website has “https://” and look for reviews on third-party sites. While it may seem like they have the perfect gift, a fake website can take your money and leave you with nothing.

📦 2. Check product certifications and quality marks

Whatever you are buying, it is vital to ensure that they are safe for use, will last for as long as you expect and are not counterfeit. Depending on the type of item, there are various forms of proof that the product has met specific safety or quality standards.

• For electrical items, toys, and kitchen appliances, ensure they have the ISI or BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) mark.
• For gold and silver jewellery, look for the Hallmark certification.
• For packaged food items, look for FSSAI approval and always check the expiry date.

Some products are particualrly risky when it comes to quality and safety standards:

• Cosmetics: Check for skin-safety certifications, expiry dates, and ingredients.
• Sweets: Buy from trusted brands or local sweet shops with a hygiene rating. Ask about shelf life and avoid sweets with artificial shine or colors.
• Decor Items (diyas, candles, lights): Ensure they are non-toxic, especially if children or pets are around. Look for safety instructions for electrical products.

🧾 3. Always ask for a bill or invoice

A bill, invoice or receipt is an essential piece of proof that can help if you need to claim a warranty, request a return, or lodge a consumer complaint.

To ensure that you can get a refund or replacement later on if something goes wrong, it is vital to ask for it at the point of purchase and then to keep it somewhere safe until you are certain that you are happy with your purchase.

Especially for high-value items like electronics, gold, and appliances, make sure you insist on a tax invoice. And even in street markets or small shops, responsible sellers should provide a receipt.

💰 4. Compare prices and verify “discounts” 

The holiday season means a lot of sales or special discounts. But all is not always as it seems.

Just because something is advertised as “60% off” doesn’t mean it’s the best deal – many sellers inflate the original MRP and apply fake discounts. Some Diwali offers will bundle slow-selling products with in-demand items, inflating the overall price.

This is why it is vital for shoppers to do their own research – to make sure they are getting the best deal and not getting ripped off.

Make sure you read the details carefully: sometimes the “free gift” or “combo” may not be worth the price. You can use price comparison websites or tools like Google Shopping, PriceDekho, or online price trackers to check the actual value of the product.

As well as the price, check for any hidden charges like delivery fees, convenience fees, or additional taxes.

🔄 5. Understand return, refund, and exchange policies

While we take for granted the right to a return, refund or exchange, policies can vary widely during festive sales. Some stores impose “no return” or “exchange only” rules on Diwali offers – which can leave shoppers in a tricky position if they assumed they had the flexibility to change their mind.

The best way to protect yourself from a nasty shock is to always read the fine print: make sure you know the time window for returns, conditions for refunds (original packaging, unused status, etc.), and how to initiate the return.

Taking a screenshots of the policy page or terms & conditions is a great idea, in case you need them later.

🧠 6. Be cautious with flash sales and time-limited offers

Flash sales are deigned to create a false sense of urgency and push people into making purchases they otherwise might not have. While something might seem like a deal too good to miss out on, don’t rush into a purchase without research.

Especially in e-commerce, many online shopping platforms use algorithms to promote low-stock items that may not be the best deal or quality. If you’re considering buying something during a flash sale, check user reviews, ratings, and product specifications before purchasing.

📧 7. Beware of fake apps, phishing emails, and scam messages

The frenzy of festival shopping is a perfect time for scammers to strike. During the run-up to Diwali, everyone should be extra cautious: don’t click on random sale links received via WhatsApp, SMS, or email, especially from unknown sources.

Fraudsters often create fake replicas of e-commerce websites with Diwali offers to steal your information or money – so ensure that you download apps only from official app stores and take additional steps to check the authenticity of a website before buying anything.

📦 8. Open packages immediately 

If you’re ordering gifts it may be tempting to simply leave the package until you’re ready to start wrapping. But it is vital to check for damage, missing items, or incorrect products as soon as your package arrives so you don’t miss a returns of exchange window.

Take an unboxing video if you’re receiving high-value items like phones, jewellery, or electronics – this can be useful for disputes.

If there is any issue, report it within the return window, or you may lose eligibility for replacement or refund.

💳 9. Use secure payment methods

It is vital to use a secure method of payment to protect your financial details from scammers. UPI, credit/debit cards, or digital wallets have additional measures of fraud protection so are your best option.

Avoid paying in full via bank transfer to unknown sellers. if you’re unsure of the seller’s credibility, opt for cash on delivery.

For online purchases, never save card details on unknown or new platforms.

🛒 10. Be a responsible shopper

Don’t fall into overconsumption traps. Just because it’s Diwali doesn’t mean you have to buy everything. Be mindful of your budget and prioritise needs over wants.

You can also make an extra effort to improve the landscape of shopping in India: support local artisans, small businesses, and eco-friendly brands whenever possible as they often offer unique, handmade, and sustainable products.

🪔 Celebrate smart, shop wise

A joyful Diwali is one where you feel secure, satisfied, and protected as a consumer. With so many tempting deals, it’s easy to get carried away, but armed with awareness and caution, you can make the most of the festive season while avoiding financial pitfalls or regretful purchases.

Let your Diwali shopping bring light, not stress. ✨