GURUGRAM: Ignore if you randomly receive an SMS with a threat to disconnect power supply over non-payment of a pending electricity bill. That threat message could actually be a scam. Yes, cyber fraudsters have adopted a new method to cheat people in the name of the electricity department – they would first send a text message to consumers threatening to snap power supply over non-payment of bills. In the second SMS, the fraudsters would mention a mobile phone number urging their potential targets to contact the same. Once anyone calls up that number, they would send a link for payment. The district administration has urged people to immediately report to the authorities if they receive any such message, while DHBVN has clarified that the discom sends only reminders for payment of electricity bills without any threat to disconnect supply. Gurugram’s deputy commissioner Nishant Yadav said, “If you receive a message which claims to be from the electricity department and urges you to make electricity bill payment or else connection will be disconnected in a few hours, please delete such message and alert the cyber police. The discom does not send a message for disconnection for non-payment or delayed payment and nor does it ask to contact any specific number or share any link for payment.” In fact, many people in Gurugram are receiving such messages, which urge them to make instant payments to prevent disconnection of electricity supply. “Do not respond to any such messages,” said the DC. “In case of any cyber fraud, people should call the national helpline number 1930 and register their complaints.” Superintendent engineer (circle-I) of Gurugram , Manoj Yadav, said, “DHBVN only sends reminders to consumers about pending electricity bills. We urge people to ignore such messages. If any one has any query or doubt about electricity bills, they can contact their nearest electricity office or call on toll-free number 1800-180-4334.” “The discom sends reminders for bill payment and imposes surcharges on late payment and provide rebates for early payment. The discom does not issue any threat of disconnection for late payment,” he said. DHBVN, in the year 2020-21, collected Rs 142 crore as delayed payment surcharges from consumers and gave a discount of Rs 90 crore for timely payment during the same period.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/gurgaon/gurugram-that-message-to-snap-your-power-supply-may-be-a-fraud/articleshow/93741420.cms
