How It Works
Scammers send SMS or call claiming to be from the electricity board, saying your power connection will be disconnected tonight due to an unpaid bill. They direct you to call a number or click a link to "pay immediately," leading to a fake payment page or app that steals money or banking details.
Real Example
SMS: "Dear customer, your electricity will be disconnected tonight at 9:30 PM as your last bill was not updated. Contact our electric officer immediately on 7XXXXXXXXX." The number connects to a scammer asking for app installation.
Red Flags 🚩
- Urgent disconnection threat with a tight deadline (often "tonight")
- Asked to call a personal mobile number, not an official helpline
- Request to install a payment or remote-access app
- Message has spelling errors or generic "Dear Customer" greeting
Protection Steps 🛡️
- Check your bill status only on your electricity board's official website or app.
- Electricity boards don't disconnect power same-night without prior written notices.
- Never install apps suggested by callers claiming to be electricity officials.
- Pay bills only through verified, official payment channels.