Fraudsters are using electricity bills to empty bank accounts. Here is how to protect yourself
To protect yourself from falling victim to this online scam, it is important to follow these precautions:
1. Verify the Source: Only use the official websites and apps provided by legitimate electricity providers for making online bill payments.
2.Check URLs: Before proceeding with any online payment, ensure that the website's URL begins with «https://» and has a padlock symbol, indicating a secure and encrypted connection.
3.Verify Payment Requests: Always double-check the authenticity of payment requests and the sender's information before making any transactions. Be cautious of any suspicious or urgent payment demands.
4.
Secure Communication Channels: When seeking assistance or making inquiries about payments, only communicate through legitimate customer support channels provided by the electricity provider. Do not share personal or financial information with unknown or unauthorized sources.
5. Use Official Apps: Download UPI (Unified Payments Interface) apps only from trusted and verified sources, such as official app stores.
In case you become a victim of this electricity bill payment scam, it is crucial to take immediate action to minimize potential damage and prevent further losses.
Here are the steps you should follow:
1. UPI Payment Apps: If you suspect fraudulent activity, go to the Help section of UPI payment apps like Phone Pe, Google Pay, Paytm, and others. Raise an issue under the «have an issue with the transaction» option.
2. Customer Care Number: Contact the customer care number of the UPI payment apps to report the issue.
