Webhook: Definition, Meaning & Guide for Indian Businesses

A webhook is a server-to-server callback — when event X happens, system A pushes data to system B's URL. Used for real-time lead capture, payment notifications, GST e-invoice IRN.

What is Webhook?

A webhook is the opposite of an API call. Instead of system A asking system B 'anything new?' every minute (polling), system B pings system A as soon as something happens. Common Indian SMB webhooks: IndiaMART → CRM (new lead), Razorpay → CRM (payment received), Meta WhatsApp → CRM (incoming message), Shiprocket → CRM (delivery status). Webhooks need signature verification (HMAC) to prevent spoofing — IndiaCRM's webhook handlers all verify signatures before processing. Without signatures, anyone who knows your webhook URL can inject fake events.