Electricity Bill Fraud
Pause, verify the request through an official channel and never act under pressure.
What is this fraud?
Scammers threaten immediate electricity disconnection for an alleged unpaid bill or required meter update.
How does it happen?
A message provides a fake helpline; the caller asks for a payment, link click or remote-access app installation.
Warning signs
Disconnection within hours; personal mobile number; payment to a private account/UPI ID; request to install an app or share OTP.
How to stay safe
Check dues only through the official electricity-provider app, website, bill or verified helpline. Do not use numbers supplied in threatening messages.
If you are a victim
Contact the bank, call 1930, report online and retain the message, number, app/link and transaction record.
Evidence to preserve
Keep transaction IDs or UTRs, bank messages, screenshots, chats, emails, phone numbers, profiles, URLs, app details, and the exact date and time. Preserve original files without editing or deleting them.
Official reporting
For financial cyber fraud, call 1930 immediately, notify your bank or payment provider, and file a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal ↗. General technical advisories are available from CERT-In ↗.