Cops issue advisory against cyber fraud over LPG crisis

Jaipur: Rajasthan police Thursday issued an advisory warning citizens about cyber fraudsters exploiting fears of LPG gas shortage to cheat people through fake booking platforms and phishing methods, officials said.

Deputy inspector general of police (Cyber Crime) Shantanu Kumar Singh said fraudsters are targeting people by creating panic around gas availability and using technical manipulation to steal money and sensitive information.


Police said criminals are using multiple methods, including fake LPG booking websites that mimic official portals to collect banking details, and calls posing as gas agency staff to extract OTPs and UPI PINs on the pretext of KYC updates or subsidy issues.

Officials said phishing links are also being circulated via SMS and WhatsApp messages claiming that subsidies are on hold, prompting users to click on malicious links that can compromise their data.

Cyber criminals are also convincing victims to install screen-sharing applications such as AnyDesk or TeamViewer, gaining remote access to their devices, while QR codes are being misused to trick users into making payments under false pretences.

The advisory urged citizens to use only official websites, mobile applications or authorised IVRS systems for LPG-related services and to avoid sharing confidential details.

Police also cautioned against acting under pressure and advised users to verify payment details carefully while using digital payment platforms.

Officials said the advisory has been issued under director general of police Rajeev Kumar Sharma as part of efforts to prevent cyber fraud and protect the public.