Online Shopping Refunds: Nowadays, most people prefer shopping online from the comfort of their homes; however, sometimes ordered items don’t arrive, or you receive a counterfeit product. Additionally, orders may fail to complete even after payment has been deducted. Often, issues arise when you try to get a refund even after returning a product. No need to panic in these situations. First, lodge a complaint on the shopping app. If the issue remains unresolved, you can escalate it by filing a complaint with the consumer helpline or the cybercrime portal.
What should I do if I receive the wrong item?
If you received your order but the product is incorrect or defective, first safely preserve evidence of the issue. Recording a video while opening the parcel helps; make sure the package seal, label, and contents are clearly visible. Next, navigate to the ‘My Orders’ section in the shopping app and select the specific order. You will find options to return, replace, or report a wrong product. Select the appropriate option based on the issue and upload the relevant photos or videos.
What should if my order is not delivered?
If your order hasn’t arrived on time, first check the order status in the app. If the order appears stuck for an extended period, contact customer care and obtain a complaint number. Even if you speak over the phone, it is advisable to also file a complaint via chat or email to maintain a record of the interaction. If the company fails to resolve the issue, you can escalate the complaint to their Grievance Officer.
What to do if you do not receive a refund?
If you returned the item but haven’t received the refund on time, first check the refund status. Keep in mind that even after the refund is processed, it may take some time for the amount to reflect in your bank account or on your card. In such cases, check the refund status and the refund reference number provided in the app. If you don’t receive the money after the stipulated time has passed, contact the company’s customer support and obtain a complaint number. Escalate the matter to the company’s office if necessary.
Payment failed, but money was deducted
If you are shopping online and the payment fails—yet the money is deducted from your account—do not immediately attempt the payment again. First, check the order and payment status. In many cases, the amount from a failed transaction is refunded. The refund time depends on the bank, the payment system, and the platform. If the money isn’t returned after a significant period, contact your bank and the relevant shopping platform with the transaction ID.
What happens if COD orders are repeatedly cancelled?
If you place Cash on Delivery (COD) orders and repeatedly cancel them or refuse to accept the product at delivery, it can affect your account status. As a result, some e-commerce sites may disable the COD option for you. Therefore, place orders only when necessary and avoid making unnecessary purchases.
Where to complain if the company does not provide a resolution?
If the e-commerce company fails to provide a resolution, you can file a complaint with the National Consumer Helpline. For this, gather all documents related to your complaint, such as the order ID, invoice, proof of payment, return details, photos or unboxing videos, and records of communication with the company.
What to do in case of online fraud?
If the issue goes beyond receiving the wrong item or a refund—and you have fallen victim to online fraud—act immediately. Inform the concerned bank or payment service provider and file a complaint regarding the cyber fraud. Lodge the complaint as soon as possible. You will also need evidence such as the transaction ID, bank messages, screenshots, and proof of communication with the accused.
What to do if a product malfunctions while under warranty?
If a product you purchased malfunctions while under warranty, you should first contact the brand’s official website or an authorised service centre. Documents such as the original bill and warranty card are useful when filing a claim. Depending on the issue and the warranty terms, you may receive a repair, a replacement, or another form of resolution.