Scam alert · · Multiple states
"Your electricity will be disconnected tonight" SMS and WhatsApp wave
A recurring campaign where messages claiming to be from the state electricity board threaten disconnection over an unpaid bill and give a mobile number to call.
The number connects to a "bill desk" that asks you to install a payment app or share a screen to "update" the bill. The app is a remote-access tool. Discoms do not send disconnection notices from personal mobile numbers.
Red flags
- A personal mobile number instead of the discom’s official app or site
- Request to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer or a "bill update" APK
- Disconnection "tonight at 9:30 pm"
If you already responded
- Uninstall any app installed on the caller’s instruction; restart the phone
- Change banking passwords from another device; call 1930 if money moved
- Report the number on Sanchar Saathi (Chakshu)
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