Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma
New Delhi

Amid a surge in cyber fraud cases involving fake electricity bill notifications, Delhi’s power distribution companies (discoms) have stepped up multi-layered awareness campaigns to safeguard consumers from financial scams.
With incidents involving fraudulent payment links, spoofed calls, and fake billing messages on the rise, discoms are deploying both technological tools and public outreach strategies to counter the threat.
Multi-Level Consumer Awareness Campaign


Power distribution companies operating in the capital — including BSES Rajdhani Power Limited, BSES Yamuna Power Limited, and Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited — are issuing:
Regular SMS alerts
Social media advisories
Official WhatsApp notifications
Public notices at customer service centers
The goal is to educate consumers about common scam tactics and promote secure, official payment channels.


AI-Based Monitoring and Real-Time Detection
Discom officials confirmed that Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based monitoring systems and anomaly detection mechanisms have been implemented to identify suspicious domains and phishing attempts.


A senior official from the discom serving North and Northwest Delhi stated:
“We are actively blocking malicious websites and coordinating with cyber security agencies. Regular mock drills are conducted to test incident-response systems.”


Companies serving South, West, East, and Central Delhi are also collaborating with cybercrime cells and telecom operators to block fraudulent numbers and suspicious links.
How the Scam Operates


Fraudsters typically create a sense of urgency and fear by sending messages claiming:
“Pending electricity bill payment”
“Immediate disconnection notice”
These messages often include:


Fake company logos
Technical language
Bogus complaint numbers
Victims are then asked to:
Click on fraudulent payment links
Share OTP, UPI PIN, CVV numbers, Aadhaar details, or banking information
The links usually redirect to fake websites designed to steal sensitive financial data.


Consumer Advisory
Discoms have urged consumers to:


Avoid clicking on unknown links
Never share OTPs or banking details over phone or messages
Make payments only through official websites or authorized apps
Immediately report suspicious calls or messages to the company and the cybercrime helpline
Awareness Is the Strongest Shield


Officials emphasized that vigilance remains the most effective defense against cyber fraud. As digital payment systems expand, consumer awareness is being positioned as the primary safeguard in preventing financial loss.


With technology-driven monitoring and intensified public outreach, power utilities hope to curb the growing menace of electricity bill scams in the capital.