e-commerce
Crackdown on fake water purifier filters on e-commerce sites
Mumbai: The surge in online shopping has revolutionised the way consumers access products, offering convenience and a wide range of options. However, this convenience has come with its fair share of challenges, one of which is the proliferation of counterfeit or fake filters and consumables. The risk associated with these substandard products has escalated, particularly with the increasing presence of such items on popular e-commerce platforms. Recognising the severity of the issue, regulatory bodies have taken action to mitigate these risks, as seen in a recent directive by Delhi High order to remove over 500 fraudulent listings. This article delves into the concerning rise of fake filters and consumables, the growing threat to consumers, and the measures taken to address the issue.
The escalating risk. Fake filters and consumables pose a significant risk to consumers due to their potential to compromise health, safety, and performance. As these items infiltrate e-commerce platforms, unsuspecting customers are at a higher risk of purchasing products that are subpar, ineffective, or even hazardous. This risk is magnified by the fact that discerning authenticity is often a challenge for consumers, who may lack the expertise or resources to differentiate between genuine and counterfeit items.
The rapid rise of these fake products can be attributed to the widespread popularity of e-commerce platforms. These platforms provide an avenue for unscrupulous actors to exploit the trust consumers place in them, as they are perceived as reputable marketplaces. Consequently, counterfeiters capitalise on the anonymity and global reach provided by these platforms to promote and sell fake filters and consumables.
The regulatory response. Recognising the gravity of the situation, judicial authorities have stepped in to address the issue head-on. A recent order from the hon’ble Delhi high court required leading e-commerce players to remove more than 500 fraudulent listings of fake filters and consumables. This demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding consumers from potential harm and ensuring the integrity of the marketplace.
This directive is a significant step towards curbing the menace of fake filters and consumables. By holding e-commerce giants accountable, the regulatory body aims to establish a safer shopping environment for consumers, bolster trust in e-commerce, and discourage counterfeiters from exploiting the platform.
Ensuring consumer safety. In light of the regulatory intervention, consumers must also play an active role in safeguarding their own interests. To protect themselves from purchasing counterfeit items, consumers can adopt several strategies:
– Research the seller. Prioritise purchases from reputable and authorized sellers. Check for seller reviews, ratings, and credibility indicators.
– Check product details. Scrutinise product descriptions, images, and specifications. Be cautious of unusually low prices or deals that seem too good to be true.
– Verify authenticity. If possible, check for authentication features provided by the manufacturer. Some products come with unique identifiers or holograms that help verify authenticity.
– Report suspicious listings. If you encounter a suspicious or counterfeit listing, report it to the e-commerce platform and relevant authorities. This contributes to maintaining the integrity of the marketplace.
– Read reviews. User reviews can provide insights into the authenticity and quality of a product. However, be cautious of fake reviews that may be part of the counterfeit operation.
Recently Eureka Forbes conducted nationwide raids against counterfeit water purifier dealers, service providers and manufacturers. Speaking on the directive by the hon’ble Delhi high court order to remove over 500 fraudulent listings, a spokesperson from Eureka Forbes said, “ Eureka Forbes has always been committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our customers. We applaud and appreciate the directive by the Hon’ble Delhi High Court and hope the customers will check filters and consumables when purchasing products online and offline.”
The influx of fake filters and consumables on e-commerce platforms underscores the need for vigilant consumer behaviour and regulatory intervention. As regulatory and judicial authorities collaborate with major e-commerce players to eliminate fraudulent listings, consumers should also educate themselves on the red flags of counterfeit products and take necessary precautions. By working together, regulatory bodies, e-commerce platforms, and informed consumers can create an environment where counterfeiters are marginalised, and the safety and satisfaction of consumers take precedence.
e-commerce
Instamart and Duolingo launch street spell check campaign for Instaprint
Duo the owl fixes signboard typos across cities to showcase instant printing.
MUMBAI: If spelling mistakes had a sworn enemy, it might just be a bright green owl with a printer. Instamart has teamed up with language learning platform Duolingo for a quirky nationwide campaign that turns everyday spelling errors into a public spectacle while promoting its instant printing service, InstaPrint. The playful activation takes aim at the many misspelled shop boards and public signs scattered across Indian streets. From “saloons” that promise haircuts rather than drinks to menus and posters peppered with punctuation mishaps, the campaign sends Duolingo’s mascot Duo on a mission to restore linguistic order.
Armed with Instamart’s instant printing feature, Duo prints corrected versions of the mistakes on the spot and pastes them over the originals. The result is a series of humorous street interventions that have quickly begun circulating on social media.
Photos and videos of the grammar correcting owl have been widely shared online, with amused users reacting to the unexpected spell check patrol. One user joked, “Ab ayega na maza bhidu,” capturing the internet’s delight at the unusual campaign.
Behind the humour lies a practical message. The activation is designed to showcase the capabilities of Instaprint, Instamart’s printing service that allows users to print documents and posters almost instantly.
The company says the feature is meant for everyday needs such as printing resumes, visa documents or last minute posters without the usual scramble to locate a print shop.
Instamart introduced Instaprint in 2025 across select metropolitan cities including Bengaluru, Mumbai and Delhi. The service allows users to order printed materials directly through the platform, extending the quick commerce model beyond groceries and household essentials.
By combining Duolingo’s famously persistent owl with India’s street level spelling quirks, the campaign taps into the internet’s long running fascination with grammar mistakes while demonstrating a real world use case for instant printing.
After all, in a world full of typos, sometimes what you really need is a quick printer and a very determined language teacher.
