Apple has recently increased the prices of its products in the Indian as well as the global markets. Though the updated prices are live on the Apple website, certain offline and online vendors are still offering the devices at the older price. If you’re planning to buy a new Apple device from third-party vendors like Amazon, Flipkart, Croma or Vijay Sales because the prices still look lower than Apple’s official website, then be careful before placing your order. The deal may look good, but many users and industry watchers are warning that some sellers could use this opportunity to scam buyers. From pre-activated devices to refurbished units sold as new, these tricks can leave customers paying full price for products that are not truly brand new.
Apple has its official stores on websites such as Amazon and Flipkart, but such sites also enable many individual sellers to list their products on these websites. While many are genuine, some may try to take advantage of buyers looking for lower prices.
A common trick the independent seller uses is to send a pre-activated device when you order a new device. Since the device has already been activated, the warranty may have started before the customer even opens the box.
Not only this, but some buyers have also reported that they have refurbished devices, opened boxes, replacement units, or products with missing accessories despite ordering a new device, and this can happen now as well, especially when the prices on the official website have skyrocketed.
Dipayan Ray, an X user, also recently shared a warning for buyers. He wrote, ‘PSA: If you see a great MacBook deal on Flipkart, check the seller name, and if it’s Treasure Haul Online, then don’t buy it. They sell pre-activated devices, and you’ll be robbed of your money.’
PSA: If you see a great MacBook deal on Flipkart, take a step back.
— Dipayan Ray (@geekedout__) June 25, 2026
Check the seller name and if it's Treasure Haul Online, then don't buy it. They sell pre-activated devices, and you'll be robbed of your money. pic.twitter.com/dYfQa5gtC6
Even though these may not be true in all cases, it is evident that one should first check the seller’s information before purchasing something.
Also read: After Apple, Microsoft raises Xbox prices: New console rates and effective date
The gap between Apple’s official pricing and the prices offered by some marketplace sellers can make these listings look attractive. Nevertheless, an inexpensive gadget does not guarantee being a better deal if the gadget is not new.
In case the gadget is used or refurbished, there will be a possibility of getting a shorter warranty and even having troubles when contacting the customer service for repairs. Returning such products can also become a lengthy process.
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Always check the details of the seller prior to making a purchase online. Check whether they are an authorised retailer or not. Once done, you should also go through the reviews posted by the other customers, as other users must have shared their experience with the seller there. Pay close attention to complaints related to activation dates or packaging.
After you have received the product, check the warranty status with the help of the serial number of the device. Make sure you record the unboxing video of the device, examine the packaging in detail, and do not fall for the deals that are too good to be true, as they are an instant red flag.