The Delhi Police has issued a public advisory cautioning citizens against cyber fraudsters who are allegedly exploiting rumours of an LPG shortage to target unsuspecting consumers with scams.
Authorities warned that fraudsters may pose as representatives of gas agencies and send malicious links or make fraudulent calls, attempting to steal personal and financial information from people worried about cooking gas availability.
Scammers using LPG shortage rumours as bait
According to police officials, misinformation circulating about LPG availability is being used by cybercriminals to lure victims.
Fraudsters may contact individuals claiming to offer urgent gas cylinder bookings, priority deliveries, or verification links, asking them to click suspicious links or share sensitive banking details.
In many cases, victims may receive SMS messages or calls instructing them to act quickly or risk losing their gas cylinder booking.
Police warned that these tactics are designed to create panic and pressure people into revealing confidential information.
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Advisory issued to residents
In its advisory, Delhi Police urged the public to remain cautious and follow basic cyber-safety practices. Citizens have been asked to:
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links received through SMS, email, or messaging apps
- Not trust calls from unknown numbers claiming to represent gas agencies
- Never share OTPs, bank details, or personal information with strangers
Officials stressed that legitimate LPG service providers do not request sensitive banking information through unsolicited calls or messages.
Report cyber fraud immediately
Authorities also advised citizens to immediately report suspected cyber fraud incidents to the National Cybercrime Helpline 1930 or through the government’s cybercrime reporting portal so that fraudulent transactions can be quickly blocked.
Police said early reporting significantly increases the chances of preventing financial losses and tracing fraudulent transactions.
Public urged to stay vigilant
With rising cyber fraud cases across the country, officials have emphasised the importance of public awareness and digital vigilance.
Police reiterated that people should rely only on official LPG company platforms or authorised gas agencies for booking cylinders and avoid responding to unsolicited messages or links claiming to offer urgent gas delivery.
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.
