How to Spot Fake Discounts and Fake MRP Tricks

A giant "80% off" badge feels great — but online, a big discount percentage is often an illusion built on an inflated MRP. Here's how to see through the common tricks and buy on real value.

The inflated-MRP trick

The most common tactic is setting an unrealistically high "MRP" and then showing a huge discount off it. The strikethrough price was never a real selling price — it exists only to make the discount look dramatic. Always judge the actual selling price, not the percentage off.

"Lowest price ever" that isn't

Labels like "lowest ever" or "deal of the year" are marketing claims, not facts. The only way to verify them is against the product's real price history. If the current price matches what it usually sells for, the claim is empty.

Fake urgency and stock counters

"Only 3 left" and countdown timers are designed to stop you from checking whether the price is genuinely good. Real deals don't need pressure. If you feel rushed, that's a reason to slow down and verify.

Bundle and "combo" inflation

Some listings bundle a cheap accessory to justify a higher price, or show a combo "saving" that disappears when you compare buying the main item alone. Price the item you actually want on its own.

How to confirm a price is genuinely low

• Compare the selling price across two or three stores
• Check the product's recent price trend, not just today's tag
• Ignore the discount percentage; focus on the rupee amount you'll pay
• Confirm any coupon or bank offer actually applies before paying

A deal aggregator that only lists items at a genuinely low current price — and shows the real selling price — saves you from most of these traps automatically.