Electricity Bill Fraud Alert: Don’t Click That Link Before Reading This
Electricity Bill Fraud Alert: Don’t Click That Link Before Reading This
Scammers are targeting online electricity bill payers with fake payment alerts and disconnection threats. Here’s how to stay safe.
Paying electricity bills online has made life easier — no more standing in long queues or waiting hours to make payments. With just a few clicks on your phone, bills are cleared in minutes. But with this convenience comes rising risk — particularly from online billing frauds.
Recently, several consumers have fallen prey to false electricity billing scams, where fraudsters send deceptive text messages claiming unpaid dues and warning of immediate disconnection. One such incident involved a consumer who received a message saying, “Your electricity bill is pending. Pay immediately via the given link to avoid disconnection.” In panic, the consumer clicked the link and paid, only to realise later that the link was fake — the bill remained unpaid, and the money was gone.
These fraudsters design convincing messages and websites resembling official ones to mislead users. Once you click such links, your personal and banking information may be stolen. Electricity distribution companies (discoms) have urged citizens to be alert and follow only official channels for bill payments.
Safety Measures to Avoid Fraud
- Validate the sender’s details: Genuine discoms never send messages from random or unknown numbers. Always cross-check before acting.
- Examine the message carefully: Poor grammar, spelling errors, or unusual tone may signal fraud. When in doubt, confirm the message’s legitimacy with your electricity provider.
- Confirm with reliable sources: If you suspect unpaid dues, contact your discom directly through its official customer care number or website.
- Protect your personal data: Government agencies or utilities never ask for sensitive details like bank account information, passwords, or OTPs via text or call. Avoid sharing such details unless verified.
- Avoid third-party agents or shops: Pay bills only through official websites or mobile apps of your electricity board.
- Register your number only on official portals: This ensures you receive genuine alerts.
- Consider cyber insurance: Though optional, a cyber insurance policy can offer financial protection against online fraud and data theft.
Electricity distribution companies have also issued a public advisory urging consumers not to panic if they receive messages threatening disconnection. Instead, verify through the official customer care helpline before making any payment.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for public awareness. Readers are advised to verify details with their respective electricity distribution companies and exercise caution while making online transactions.
