‘Swap-and-send-back’ scam 2025: How fraudsters are tricking Dhanteras gold buyers this year

Online gold

As the Diwali and Dhanteras shopping rush picks up, cyber and consumer protection experts are warning of a new form of jewelry fraud that preys on trust and festive urgency — the “swap-and-send-back” scam. Unlike common phishing or fake website traps, this scam unfolds during the final and seemingly safest stage of an online purchase: delivery.

This sophisticated con targets buyers of gold, silver, and other valuable items who make prepaid orders from what appear to be verified online sellers. After the payment, the fraudsters send a delivery package that looks entirely genuine — complete with professional packaging, branding, and even fake invoices. But the twist comes when the package is opened.

Instead of real gold jewellery, buyers find a counterfeit or low-value metal piece inside. Often, the scammer — posing as a delivery agent or customer care representative — follows up immediately, claiming that a part of the shipment, such as a certificate, box, or “security seal,” needs to be returned for “verification” or “insurance clearance.” Once the buyer complies and sends the item back, the fraudsters vanish, leaving the victim with worthless jewelry and no way to recover the loss.

This scam works because it exploits consumer confidence at the point of delivery. Most people believe that receiving a parcel confirms legitimacy, and the request to return packaging or documentation sounds procedural. By blending familiar delivery patterns with small, believable instructions, scammers manipulate victims into letting their guard down.

According to consumer rights advocates, this scam has seen a sharp rise ahead of Dhanteras as demand for gold and silver spikes. Fraudsters use fake e-commerce platforms, impersonate legitimate jewelers, or even list products on social media marketplaces with attractive discounts and guaranteed doorstep delivery.

Stick to well-known jewelers or official websites. Avoid buying gold or jewelry from social media listings or unfamiliar online platforms, even if the discounts appear genuine.

Every hallmarked gold item carries a six-digit Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number. Check it using the official BIS Care app before making or confirming a purchase.

Always record a video of the delivery and unboxing process. If possible, open the package in the presence of the delivery person and verify the item matches your order.

If a seller or delivery agent requests you to “send back” part of the order for verification, refuse immediately. Genuine sellers never ask customers to return boxes or documents after delivery.

Prefer credit cards, UPI apps with dispute resolution, or marketplaces offering refund policies. Avoid direct bank transfers or off-platform payments.

If you suspect foul play, contact your bank, the National Cybercrime Helpline (1930), or file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in immediately.