In a bid to protect citizens from fraudulent attempts to exploit them, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has issued a strong caution against heeding suspicious messages and calls demanding online payments through personal mobile numbers or unknown apps. Fake threats of power supply disconnection, often delivered via SMS, WhatsApp messages, and letters, are targeting unsuspecting individuals, urging them to make immediate online payments.
These fraudulent messages claim that power supply interruptions are imminent, usually around 9:30 PM, due to non-payment of previous month’s electricity bills. Recipients are instructed to contact a provided personal mobile number or follow a link for online payments. Intriguingly, these deceitful messages are being sent to individuals who either have no connection to unpaid electricity bills or have already settled their dues.
Falling prey to these deceptive tactics can lead to unauthorized access to personal devices and potential theft of funds from bank accounts, making it essential for individuals to exercise caution and remain vigilant.
To ensure the safety and security of electricity consumers, MSEDCL has strongly recommended using its official mobile app and website, www.mahadiscom.in, for secure electricity bill payments. Legitimate messages regarding electricity services are disseminated through the automated system to registered customers, identified with Sender IDs such as VM-MSEDCL, VK-MSEDCL, AM-MSEDCL, and JM-MSEDCL. MSEDCL never requests customers to contact personal mobile numbers, share bank OTPs, or download unverified software.
In case of any suspicions or concerns, electricity consumers are advised to contact the 24-hour toll-free numbers 1912, 18002123435, or 18002333435, or seek assistance from the National Cyber Helpline at 1930.
Rajendra Pawar, Chief Engineer of Pune MSEDCL, emphasized the importance of vigilance, urging individuals not to respond to messages from personal mobile numbers and to avoid engaging with online links or downloading unverified software. These precautions are paramount to shield individuals from falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
