Mahavitaran, the electricity distribution company, has issued a cautionary alert to consumers regarding fraudulent messages circulating regarding electricity bill payments. With a lapse in updating electricity bills over the past month, concerns have been raised about potential disruptions in the electricity supply. Urgent messages have been sent to citizens via provided mobile numbers, prompting immediate contact. These messages contain links purportedly for online bill payment using personal mobile numbers and urge customers to download software. Responding to such messages poses a risk of compromising personal devices and unauthorized bank transactions.
Mahavitaran emphasizes that registration of mobile numbers is solely for registered electricity consumers, enabling proactive planning and maintenance, especially in cases of technical disruptions. In case of an electricity supply interruption, restoration may take time. Customers are informed of meter reading submission dates, total units used, bill payment due dates, and procedures for discontinuing electricity supply via SMS notifications. Additionally, SMS notifications include meter reading dates, total units used, and bill amounts.
Officials have advised consumers against responding to SMS, WhatsApp messages, or calls related to MSEDCL originating from mobile numbers. They emphasize that if consumers receive a link from a personal mobile number prompting payment, it should be completely disregarded to avoid potential financial fraud.
In case of concerns or suspicious messages, consumers are urged to contact the toll-free number or nearby offices, available round-the-clock. This directive aims to safeguard consumers against fraudulent activities and ensure the security of electricity billing processes.