WhatsApp electricity bill scam: Users getting alerts to clear dues

Fraudsters are sending WhatsApp messages to users to clear their electricity bills. Beware of such messages and don’t fall prey to them.

Beware! WhatsApp users are being tricked into paying fake electricity bills; Know how (Reuters)

Do you pay your electricity bill online? If yes, then beware! Fraudsters are tricking users into paying fake electricity bills via WhatsApp messages. Hackers are trying different ways to attack people online and the new way is sending them fake electricity bills. Since the electricity board sends messages to users to remind them to pay their electricity bills on time, hackers have been using fake WhatsApp messages asking them to pay their electricity bill or their electricity connection will be suspended. Several Twitter users have reported this scam.

As shared on Twitter, such messages are being sent via SMS or WhatsApp. When these numbers are dialled users are asked to pay for the electricity or risk having their electricity cut off. Most cases of electricity scams are reported in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Punjab, and Odisha, among other cities.

As per the report, WhatsApp message reads, “Dear Customer Your Electricity power will be disconnected. Tonight at 9.30 pm from the electricity office. because your previous month's bill was not updated. Please immediately contact our electricity officer 8260303942 Thank you.” The messages are not sent by a legitimate source like "BSES DL" for BSES Delhi.

How to save yourself from WhatsApp electricity bill scam?

Though these messages look reliable at first glance, when checked, you can see that the use of language incorrect. You will see so many full stops and a complete lack of understanding of capital letters and small-cap letters.

Users have been warned to be aware of such messages. Most people who have actually forgotten to pay their electricity bill are specially targeted as it leaves them panicking and acting without giving it much thought.

Whenever you receive such messages, always check their source before reacting to these or you might end up losing your money.