look news india
News India Live, Digital Desk: If you have also received a message on WhatsApp about electricity bill being outstanding or meter updating, then be careful. In many parts of the country including Bihar, cyber thugs are now making electricity consumers their new victims. This method of cheating is so vicious that people’s bank accounts are getting wiped out in the blink of an eye.
How is the web of fraud woven?
Cyber criminals posing as electricity department officials send WhatsApp messages or SMS to consumers. The message reads: “Dear consumer, it is mandatory for your electricity meter to be updated, otherwise your electricity will be disconnected at 9 pm tonight. Contact this number for assistance or click on the link below.”
As soon as a scared consumer calls that number, the fraudsters ask them to download a ‘remote access app’ (like AnyDesk or TeamViewer) or send a fake payment link.
Attention Looting happens in these 3 ways
Fake App Download: Fraudsters ask for control of your mobile and see your banking passwords.
Small payment scam: You are asked to recharge just Rs 10 or Rs 50, and as soon as you enter the details, they hack your account.
Personal Data Theft: Your personal information is stolen through the link which is later used for blackmailing.
Cyber experts’ advice: how to protect yourself?
Use only official app: Always make bill payment through the official app of the electricity department (like ‘Suvidha’ app in Bihar) or website.
Do not trust unknown calls/messages: The electricity department never threatens to cut off power on WhatsApp.
Avoid clicking on links: Do not open any suspicious link, no matter how important it may seem.
Where to complain?
If you have become a victim of fraud, then without delay Cyber Crime Helpline Number 1930 Call or register your complaint on www.cybercrime.gov.in, Cyber Fraud Alert, Electricity Meter Update Scam, Bihar News, WhatsApp Scam, Electricity Bill Fraud, Online Fraud Prevention, Cyber Crime Patna, Electricity Bill Fraud, Cyber Fraud Alert, WhatsApp Scam, Electricity Meter Update Fraud.