Cyberabad Cyber Crime police have warned residents about fraudsters allegedly deceiving people in the name of the Water Board by using fake alerts related to metre updating, bill verification and CAN authentication.
Cyberabad Cyber Crime DCP T. Sai Manohar said criminals are contacting people through WhatsApp messages, SMSes and phone calls, claiming that their water supply may be suspended because a bill has not been updated, a metre reading has not been registered, or CAN verification is pending.
Fraudsters Pose As Water Board Officials
According to the warning, the fraudsters are using the name of the Water Board to create fear among consumers and push them into following their instructions. Victims are reportedly told that immediate action is required to resolve problems linked to their water connection or billing record.
The criminals allegedly gain the trust of users by asking them to make small payments of ₹10, ₹13 or ₹20. These low-value payment requests are used to make the communication appear routine and less suspicious.
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Remote Apps Used To Trap Victims
The DCP said fraudsters ask consumers to download remote access apps, APK files or tools such as Kwik Support. Once the remote app is installed, the victim’s mobile phone may hang, the screen may go blank, or the phone may start behaving unusually.
Some victims are also allegedly guided through video calls, while others are instructed to follow steps on UPI and banking apps. Police said these instructions are used to gain access to financial transactions and personal banking activity.
Police Urge Public To Avoid Sharing Credentials
When consumers follow the fraudsters’ instructions, large sums are debited from their bank accounts, UPI accounts and credit cards. Complaints from victims have revealed losses running into lakhs of rupees, the DCP said.
Police urged people to remain alert and not believe calls, WhatsApp messages or SMSes claiming to be from the HMWSSB. The DCP also advised the public not to share OTPs, CVV numbers or UPI PINs with anyone.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
