Online shopping has become a part of everyday life, offering convenience, discounts, and doorstep delivery. But what if you receive a fake (duplicate) product instead of the original one you ordered?
Can you take legal action against an online seller or e-commerce company for selling counterfeit goods? 
Yes! Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, Ajio, and Tata Cliq are legally required to sell only genuine products. If they deliver a fake, defective, or misleading product, you have the right to file a complaint, demand a refund, and even sue them for compensation!
In this blog, we will explain your legal rights, how to take action if you receive a fake product, and how to file a consumer court case for compensation. 
What to Do If You Receive a Fake Product Online? 
Gather Evidence – Take an unboxing video, keep the bill, delivery details, and chat records.
Contact Customer Support – Request a refund or replacement from the e-commerce platform.
Report to National Consumer Helpline (NCH) – If the company refuses to help, call 1800-11-4000 or file an online complaint.
Report to Cyber Crime Police – If the seller is fraudulent, report it on the Cyber Crime Helpline 1930.
File a Case in Consumer Court – If you suffer financial loss, file a case at www.edaakhil.nic.in and demand compensation.
Example:
A customer ordered a ₹10,000 branded watch online but received a fake one. The company refused a refund. He filed a consumer complaint and won ₹50,000 compensation.
What to Do? Don’t stay silent if you receive a fake product—take legal action!
Can You Sue an Online Seller for Selling Fake Products? 
Yes! Under Consumer Protection Laws and IT Act, 2000, you can file a legal case against online sellers.
E-commerce companies are responsible for ensuring only genuine products are sold.
If a seller delivers a fake item, it is considered fraud.
You can demand a refund, replacement, or compensation for damages.
Sellers cannot mislead customers—if the product is fake, they must clearly inform the buyer.
Example:
A buyer purchased an Apple iPhone online, but received a duplicate Chinese model. He filed a consumer court case and won ₹1 lakh compensation.
What to Do? If you receive a fake product, don’t accept it—take legal steps immediately!
Laws That Protect You from Fake Products in India 
Consumer Protection Act, 2019 –
Consumers have the right to genuine, safe, and quality products.
Selling fake products is considered unfair trade practice and is punishable by law.
Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860 – Sections 415 & 420 (Fraud)
Selling fake products is considered fraud and cheating, punishable with jail time and heavy fines.
IT Act, 2000 – Protection Against Online Fraud
E-commerce platforms are responsible if they knowingly allow the sale of fake items.
Example:
A person bought a ₹25,000 branded handbag online, but it turned out to be fake. The consumer court ordered the company to pay ₹2 lakh fine + ₹50,000 compensation.
What to Do? You have the right to sue companies that deliver counterfeit products and claim compensation for your loss.
How to File a Complaint & Get a Refund for a Fake Product? 
1. Contact the E-Commerce Platform’s Customer Support 
Share order details and photos of the fake product.
Request a refund or replacement.
If they refuse to help, move to the next step.
2. File a Complaint with the National Consumer Helpline (NCH)
Toll-Free Number: 1800-11-4000
File an online complaint: www.consumerhelpline.gov.in
Example:
A customer purchased ₹5,000 branded shoes online, but received fake ones. The company refused a refund. He filed an NCH complaint and got his money back within 10 days.
3. Report to Cyber Crime Police 
If the seller is committing fraud, report it to Cyber Crime Police.
Cyber Crime Helpline: 1930
File an online complaint: www.cybercrime.gov.in
If you are scammed by a fake online store, report it immediately.
4. File a Case in Consumer Court
If the company refuses to refund your money, file a case in Consumer Court.
File an online complaint: www.edaakhil.nic.in
Example:
A customer bought a ₹15,000 branded watch, but received a cheap fake. The company refused a refund. He filed a consumer case and won ₹75,000 compensation.
Consumer court cases usually take 3-6 months to resolve.
How to Avoid Buying Fake Products Online? 
Shop only from trusted e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, and Ajio.
Check seller ratings, reviews, and feedback before purchasing.
Avoid deals that are “too good to be true” – extreme discounts can be a scam.
Check for official brand tags, barcodes, and packaging.
Use Cash on Delivery (COD) for expensive purchases.
Example:
A customer saw an iPhone 14 for ₹10,000 on a shopping website. He checked reviews and found it was a scam, saving himself from fraud!
Be smart while shopping online—if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
Final Thoughts: Take Legal Action Against Fake Product Sellers! 
If you receive a fake product, don’t ignore it—take action immediately!
File a complaint with Consumer Helpline (1800-11-4000) and Cyber Crime (1930).
If your refund is denied, file a case in Consumer Court for compensation.
Always check seller details, reviews, and return policies before buying online.
Help others become aware! Share this blog to spread awareness about consumer rights in India 
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Have you ever received a fake product while shopping online? Share your experience in the comments!
