Electricity Bill Scam in India: Fake Messages, Fraud Calls & How to Stay Safe

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Electricity bill scams have become very common in India. Every day, thousands of people are getting fake SMS and WhatsApp messages that say things like, “Your electricity will be disconnected tonight at 9:30 PM. Please call this number or update your bill.” These messages are sent in large numbers and usually look real.

The message creates fear, especially for those who depend on online bill payments. When people panic, they quickly click on links or call the given number. This is how the scam starts.

In this article, we will explain how these scams work, what to watch out for, and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. For updates and scam alerts, you can also check Chakshu Portal.

What Is the Electricity Bill Scam?

It’s a type of fraud where people receive false messages or calls related to their electricity connection. These messages often say that your electricity bill is unpaid and that your connection will be cut within an hour or two. To avoid disconnection, the message asks you to call a number or click a link.

Once you call the number, the person on the other side pretends to be an official from your electricity board. They talk in a very serious tone and ask for your Aadhaar number, bank details, or OTP. In some cases, they ask you to download an app to help you “solve the issue.” That app then gives the scammer control of your phone.

The scam is well-planned and affects people of all ages and backgrounds.

Recent Cases That Show How Real the Problem Is

Let’s look at a few real-life cases that were recently reported:

  • Delhi: A doctor lost ₹6 lakh after clicking a fake electricity bill payment link. The link took him to a fake website that looked exactly like the original portal. After entering his card details, the money was gone.
  • Mumbai: A 65-year-old woman received a fake SMS warning of power disconnection. She called the number and was asked to download an app. She followed the instructions, and within a few minutes, ₹6.9 lakh was withdrawn from her account.
  • Hyderabad: The Telangana power department warned its users about scam calls and messages. They told people not to respond to unknown numbers or links claiming to be from the electricity board.

Such incidents are happening across the country. That’s why it’s important to stay alert. You can always report suspicious numbers and read about more such scams on Chakshu Portal.

How Does the Scam Usually Work?

Here is a simple step-by-step list of how scammers cheat people:

  1. You get a message saying your power will be cut soon.
  2. The message includes a phone number or link asking you to take action quickly.
  3. If you call the number, the person pretends to be from your electricity company.
  4. They may ask for your bank details, Aadhaar, or send you a link to an app.
  5. That app lets them take control of your phone.
  6. Within minutes, they steal money from your account.

Why Do People Fall for It?

These messages seem real because they:

  • Use names of actual electricity companies like BSES, MSEB, TNEB, etc.
  • Come at odd hours, like evenings or late at night.
  • It Sounds urgent, so people don’t stop to think.
  • Use correct grammar and format, so they look professional.

People feel rushed and want to avoid losing electricity at home. That panic is what scammers count on.

Always remember: electricity companies do not call or message customers like this. If in doubt, you can always double-check with your local office or visit Chakshu Portal to see if others have reported the same thing.

How to Stay Safe from This Scam?

Here are some easy tips to keep yourself protected:

  • Do Not Click on Links from Messages: Type the official website of your electricity provider in the browser. Don’t trust links sent by SMS or WhatsApp.
  • Do Not Call the Numbers in the Message: Always use the official helpline number of your electricity board.
  • Do Not Share OTP, Aadhaar, or Bank Details: No government or utility company will ask for these on a phone call.
  • Avoid Installing Apps on Their Request: Remote apps like AnyDesk or TeamViewer should never be installed just because someone on a call told you to do it.
  • Check and Report on Chakshu Portal: If you receive any suspicious message, report it immediately. This helps others stay safe too.

What to Do If You’re a Victim?

If you think you’ve already shared your details with a scammer, take these steps quickly:

  • Call Your Bank: Request them to freeze your account and block your card.
  • Report to Cyber Crime Cell: File a complaint at your nearest police station or on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
  • Inform Your Electricity Board: Let them know someone is using their name to scam people.
  • Share the Details on Chakshu Portal: By sharing your case, you help warn others who may be targeted next.

Final Thoughts

Electricity bill scams are a serious issue now, and they are spreading fast. But with the right information and a little care, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Don’t trust any message that asks for quick action without verification. Take your time, cross-check the source, and always think before clicking or calling.

Stay alert, and stay informed. For the latest updates on scams, tips to stay safe, and fraud number reports, visit Chakshu Portal regularly.

Together, we can stop the scammers.

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