Cyber scammers target gas cylinder bookings

Cyber fraudsters are exploiting the ongoing concern over domestic gas cylinder shortages to target unsuspecting residents online. The scammers post fake advertisements on social media, promising immediate delivery or extra cylinders for advance payments. They also send WhatsApp and SMS messages with links to counterfeit websites, luring users into sharing sensitive information.

V.C. Sajjanar, Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad, warned the public not to fall for such messages claiming “guaranteed” or “urgent” gas supply upon prepayment. He advised residents to use only official gas company websites or authorized agencies for bookings and online payments. Sharing bank details, OTPs, or UPI PINs with unknown persons can lead to financial loss, as personal and banking information entered on fake sites can be stolen by cybercriminals.

Authorities urge citizens to report any suspected cyber fraud immediately. Complaints can be lodged by calling the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or filing a report at http:// cybercrime. gov.in.