‘Your LPG subsidy has been discontinued’:Did you receive this message too? Beware! It’s a scam—cyber expert explains how to stay safe

India is currently witnessing a slight LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) supply crunch, and cybercriminals are exploiting the situation to target unsuspecting consumers. The Government of India has issued a warning about a new LPG subsidy scam and urged people to stay alert. In this fraud, scammers send fake SMSes, WhatsApp messages, or emails claiming that your LPG subsidy will be discontinued unless you update your KYC.
The messages include malicious links that can trick users into sharing their OTP, bank details, or approving UPI transactions, allowing fraudsters to steal money from their accounts. Understanding how this scam works is the best way to protect yourself and your savings. Therefore, in today’s ‘Cyber Literacy’ column, we will talk about the ‘LPG Subsidy Scam’. We will also know that- Expert: Rahul Mishra, Cyber Security Advisor, Uttar Pradesh Police Question: What is the LPG subsidy scam? Answer: This is a cyber fraud in which scammers trap people by instilling fear of gas subsidy, KYC updates, or gas connection disconnection. Question: How are fraudsters targeting people in the name of an LPG subsidy? Answer: Understand it step by step. Question: What messages do scammers send to people? Answer: Scammers send messages that create an atmosphere of fear and urgency. Such as- Question: What details do scammers ask for, and how can they misuse them? Answer – Cyber fraudsters trick people into believing their LPG subsidy is blocked or that KYC needs updating, and then ask for various sensitive financial details. Such as- Using these details, fraudsters – Question: What is the difference between a fake KYC update and a real KYC process? Answer – The real KYC process is done only through the official website, app, or authorized gas agency of the LPG company. See all differences in the graphic. Question: Do LPG companies ask for OTP on phone, SMS or WhatsApp? Answer: No, LPG companies and gas agencies never ask for sensitive information like OTP or password on phone, SMS, or WhatsApp. Be alert if such a demand is made. This is a sign of cyber fraud. Question: How to verify messages or calls related to LPG? Answer: If you receive any message or call related to LPG subsidy, KYC update, or gas connection closure, do not trust it immediately. Take these steps to verify the message or call- Remember, if there is pressure for immediate action, the message and call are fake. Remember, if OTP, UPI PIN, CVV, or bank details are being asked for, it is fake. Remember, always get information about any KYC or subsidy updates only from official sources. Question: How to avoid LPG subsidy scams? Answer: The easiest way to avoid this scam is not to immediately trust any message, call, or link. Always confirm any information related to LPG subsidy, KYC, or gas connection from official sources. See the ways to avoid LPG subsidy scams in the graphic. Question: What is the correct way to check LPG subsidy status? Answer: Check LPG subsidy status through the official website, app of the concerned gas company, or through the gas agency. Question: What is the correct way to update LPG KYC? Answer – Always update LPG KYC through the official website, mobile app, or authorized gas agency of the respective gas company. For this, you can- Question: What to do if OTP or bank details are accidentally shared? Answer: In such a situation, it is important to take immediate action. In such a situation, you should Question: Where and how to complain in case of cyber fraud? Answer: In case of cyber fraud, immediately call the National Cyber Crime Helpline number 1930 or register an online complaint at cybercrime.gov.in. Keep all evidence with you while filing the complaint.