LPG Scam Alert in Jamshedpur: Cyber fraudsters exploit gas shortage fears with fake calls, links

Jamshedpur, March 22: Amid growing concerns over a possible LPG shortage triggered by ongoing tensions in West Asia affecting global oil and gas supply, cyber fraudsters have become increasingly active, targeting unsuspecting consumers through sophisticated scams.
Taking advantage of the situation, fraudsters are posing as representatives of gas agencies and contacting consumers under the pretext of LPG cylinder booking, KYC updates, or connection verification. Victims are then sent fraudulent links via WhatsApp, SMS, or social media, claiming that instant payment through these links will ensure immediate gas delivery.
However, once users click on these malicious links and make payments, the money is directly siphoned off into the fraudsters’ accounts.
In several instances, merely clicking the link has reportedly led to unauthorized access to mobile devices, enabling scammers to withdraw substantial amounts from victims’ bank accounts.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid trusting unsolicited calls or suspicious messages.
City SP Kumar Shivashish stated that no such cases have been officially reported in the district so far, but emphasized that caution is essential in preventing potential fraud.
Cybersecurity experts advise consumers to book LPG cylinders only through official apps or authorized websites and to refrain from clicking on unknown or unverified links.
A small lapse in judgment, they warn, could lead to significant financial losses.