Electricity Department Scams: How to Check If an Official Is Genuine

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Many people across India have recently reported receiving calls, messages, or visits from people who say they are from the electricity department. These people may claim your electricity will be disconnected if you don’t pay a bill or update your details right away.

Some even show up at your home asking to check the meter or collect money in cash. But not all of them are real. Some are scammers who want to steal your money or personal details.

In this blog, Portal Chakshu explains how these scams work and how you can protect yourself by knowing the right steps.

Common Tricks Scammers Use

Scammers are using simple tricks to fool people. Here are a few things they usually do:

1. Fake Calls and SMS

They send messages saying your electricity will be cut off in a few hours. They often include a phone number to call or a link to click. Once you contact them, they may ask you to share personal details, download apps, or send money.

2. Home Visits Without Notice

Some people come to your home pretending to be from the local electricity office. They may say they are checking the meter or want to collect a fine. Often, they wear normal clothes and carry a fake ID card.

3. Fake Payment Apps or Links

They send you a link or QR code asking you to make a payment. These links can take you to fake websites or apps designed to steal your bank details.

How to Tell if the Person Is Really from the Electricity Board?

You don’t need to panic if someone visits or calls. You just need to verify a few simple things. Here’s what to do:

1. Ask for an ID Card

Every real official from the electricity department carries an ID card with their photo, name, and employee number. Always ask to see it clearly.

2. Check Their Uniform

In most states, electricity staff wear a uniform with the company logo. If someone comes in casual clothes, it’s a reason to be alert.

3. Call the Official Number

Don’t call back the number from the message or visit. Instead, check your last electricity bill for the official contact number of your electricity provider and call them to confirm if someone was sent to your house.

4. Do Not Pay in Cash Without Receipt

Never give cash to anyone claiming to collect bills unless they give you a printed receipt from the company. Most real officials now use online payment systems.

Portal Chakshu often reminds readers that it’s okay to ask questions. A genuine official will never get angry or refuse to show ID.

How to Stay Safe from Electricity Connection Scams?

There are a few easy steps you can follow to avoid becoming a victim:

  • Don’t act in a rush: Scammers often try to scare you with urgent messages. Stay calm and check things first.
  • Don’t share OTPs or PINs: No official will ask for your banking OTP or UPI PIN.
  • Don’t download unknown apps: If someone asks you to install an app to “check your bill,” don’t do it.
  • Keep bills and contacts ready: Always keep your recent bill and the official contact number of your provider handy.
  • Save payment receipts: If you pay online or offline, keep the receipt or SMS as proof.

These small steps can make a big difference. For more tips, visit Portal Chakshu regularly.

What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Message or Call?

Here’s how you can respond safely:

  1. Don’t click on any links in the message.
  2. Don’t share your account, Aadhaar, or bank details.
  3. Call the electricity company’s helpline from their official website or your last bill.
  4. If someone comes to your home, ask for ID and call to confirm before letting them in.
  5. Report the scam to local authorities and through online portals.

Portal Chakshu also shares updates on new fraud alerts and how to report them.

Where and How to Report Electricity Fraud?

If you’ve received a fake call, message, or visit, report it. Here’s how:

  • Visit the official Sanchar Saathi portal and go to the Chakshu section.
  • Select “report suspicious call/message.”
  • Fill in the details like phone number, message text, or the person’s name.
  • Submit it after OTP verification.

This will help prevent more people from getting scammed. Portal Chakshu encourages all users to report fraud quickly so action can be taken.

Quick Checklist to Spot a Fake Official

What to Check What It Should Look Like
ID Card Company logo, photo, and official name
Uniform Usually includes badge/logo of the provider
Communication Comes from official helpline or notice
Payment Request Always offers receipt or digital payment
Manner of Approach Polite and not forceful

Final Words

Electricity connection scams are happening more often. But you can avoid them by staying calm, asking the right questions, and verifying before you trust.

Remember, real electricity officials will not demand money in a hurry or ask you to share sensitive information. If anything feels wrong, stop and check. Use your bill, official apps, or helplines to confirm everything.

Stay safe, stay aware, and keep reading Portal Chakshu for more easy-to-understand updates on safety, scams, and public alerts.

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