Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) cautions citizens against fraudulent messages demanding immediate bill payments
Pune, Nov 04: In a recent surge of fraudulent activities, Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has issued a warning to the public regarding fake messages being circulated through SMS and WhatsApp. The deceptive messages demand immediate payment of electricity bills, threatening disconnection if not complied with promptly.
The company urges citizens not to open any online links or download software from these messages. MSEDCL emphasizes that official bill payments can be securely processed through the Mahadiscom mobile app or the website www.mahadiscom.in.
The fraudulent messages typically inform recipients about impending electricity disconnection due to non-payment of the previous month’s bill, urging them to contact a provided personal mobile number immediately. However, these messages are being sent indiscriminately, targeting both those who have already settled their bills and those who are not even MSEDCL customers.
Upon responding to these messages, unsuspecting citizens risk falling victim to hackers who may attempt to loot their bank accounts. MSEDCL clarifies that legitimate communication is conducted through official channels, with sender IDs such as VM-MSEDCL, VK-MSEDCL, AM-MSEDCL, and JM-MSEDCL.
The company stresses that it does not send messages from personal mobile numbers and that authentic messages only come from recognized sender IDs. Legitimate messages include information on planned maintenance, repairs, expected downtime, meter readings, electricity bills, and notices related to power supply.
MSEDCL encourages consumers to report any doubts or complaints to their 24-hour toll-free numbers 1912, 18002123435, or 18002333435 or contact the nearest office.
As the company remains vigilant, citizens are advised to exercise caution, avoid responding to suspicious messages, and refrain from opening links or downloading software from unverified sources. In doing so, they can contribute to curbing the rise of fraudulent activities and protect themselves from potential financial losses.
