How to Report Gas Connection Fraud Using the Chakshu Portal
Gas connections are part of almost every Indian home. Whether it’s for cooking or other household needs, a working gas connection is important. But recently, many people have been receiving fake calls and messages. These say things like:
- Your gas connection will stop soon.
- You must update your KYC.
- Pay a small fee to continue the service.
- Click a link to verify your gas account.
Most of these calls and messages are not from your gas provider. They are from scammers who want your personal details or money. This kind of cheating is called gas connection fraud. It is becoming very common.
The good news is, you can now report these frauds easily. The Chakshu Portal has been created for this very purpose.
What is the Chakshu Portal?
The Chakshu Portal is an online platform created by the Indian government under the Sanchar Saathi program. Its purpose is simple – to let people report any suspicious or fake communication they receive through SMS, WhatsApp, or phone calls.
This includes anything that seems to be a scam, such as:
- Messages asking for personal details like Aadhaar, bank number, or OTP.
- Calls claiming to be from gas agencies but asking for money or urgent action.
- Links that may look like they are from official gas service websites.
By reporting these incidents on the Chakshu Portal, you help prevent these scams from spreading further.
How Gas Connection Frauds Usually Happen?
Fraudsters use very simple tricks to fool people:
- They send you a text or WhatsApp message saying your gas booking or KYC is incomplete.
- They give you a link that looks official but is not.
- They ask for small payments through UPI or bank transfer.
- They pretend to be customer service agents and ask for your Aadhaar or PAN card.
- Some even say your gas will stop working within 2 hours if you don’t act quickly.
The aim is to make you panic. When you panic, you’re more likely to follow their instructions without thinking.
How to Report Gas Fraud Using the Chakshu Portal?
Reporting a fraud is not difficult. Here’s a step-by-step guide to use the Chakshu Portal:
Step 1: Go to the Website: Open your mobile or computer browser and type chakshuportal.com.in. This will take you to the homepage.
Step 2: Click on ‘Report Suspected Fraud Communication’: This option is clearly written on the homepage. Click it.
Step 3: Select the Type of Contact: Choose if you got the fraud through a phone call, SMS, or WhatsApp.
Step 4: Choose the Fraud Category: You will see different fraud types such as KYC update fraud, fake agency calls, scam links, etc. Pick the one that matches your case.
Step 5: Fill in Details: You will need to enter:
- The phone number that contacted you.
- The date and time you got the message or call.
- A short note on what was said or sent.
- You can also upload a screenshot or photo as proof.
Step 6: Verify Yourself: Enter your own mobile number. You will get a one-time password (OTP). Enter it to confirm.
Step 7: Submit the Report: Once all details are filled, click submit. Your report will be sent to the concerned department.
This process takes only a few minutes and helps stop fraud numbers from targeting more people.
What Happens After You Report?
After you send your complaint through the Chakshu Portal, it is reviewed by the Department of Telecommunications. They will check the number and take steps like blocking it or tracing it.
You may not get a personal response, but your action can help many others stay safe.
How to Avoid Gas Connection Frauds?
Here are some simple tips to avoid getting scammed:
- Never share OTPs, Aadhaar numbers, or bank details over phone or message.
- Do not click on links from unknown numbers.
- Don’t believe messages that create panic.
- Call your official gas agency if you get a suspicious message.
- Use official apps or websites to check the status of your gas connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I report a fraud even if I didn’t lose money?
Yes. Even if you did not fall into the trap, reporting helps stop the scam.
Q2: What if I deleted the message?
You can still report the number and explain what happened, even if you don’t have proof.
Q3: Is there any cost for reporting?
No. Using the Chakshu Portal is completely free.
Q4: Can I report fraud messages that I received last month?
You can only report communications received within the past 30 days.
Final Words
Gas connection fraud is a growing problem, but it can be controlled with quick reporting and public awareness. Most scammers rely on fear and confusion to cheat people. The Chakshu Portal is one of the easiest tools we have to fight back.
Share this information with your family and friends. The more people know about it, the fewer will fall victim.
Always stay alert, think twice before acting, and use the Chakshu Portal whenever something feels suspicious.