Fake LPG Booking Ads Trigger Cyber Fraud, Hyderabad Police Urge Public Vigilance

Hyderabad Police have issued a strong warning to citizens about a growing cyber fraud targeting people attempting to book LPG gas cylinders online . City Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar cautioned that fraudsters are exploiting concerns over the availability of cooking gas cylinders in certain areas to trick unsuspecting consumers into paying money through fake online platforms.

According to police officials, cybercriminals are actively targeting individuals who search the internet for gas cylinder bookings or emergency refills . The fraudsters are circulating fake advertisements on social media platforms , promising immediate cylinder delivery or additional LPG cylinders if customers make an advance payment. These advertisements often appear legitimate and are designed to create urgency among households in need of quick gas supply.

Investigators say the scammers typically contact potential victims through WhatsApp messages or SMS , sending links that lead to fraudulent websites designed to resemble official LPG service portals . Once users click on these links, they are asked to enter payment details or transfer money in advance, with the assurance that the cylinder will be delivered shortly. In many cases, victims are also asked to share sensitive information such as bank account details, OTPs, or UPI PINs , which allows criminals to carry out unauthorized financial transactions.

Police authorities emphasized that genuine gas companies do not request payments through unknown links or unofficial communication channels . Citizens have been advised to remain cautious of offers promising priority delivery, discounted cylinders, or guaranteed immediate supply , as these are commonly used tactics in cyber scams.

To avoid falling victim to such fraud, consumers should book LPG cylinders only through official websites, verified mobile applications, or authorized gas agencies associated with major oil marketing companies such as Indane, BharatGas, and HP Gas . Officials also warned the public never to click on suspicious links sent by unknown individuals and to avoid sharing confidential banking information online.

Cybercrime experts note that scams involving essential household services are increasing as more people rely on digital platforms and online payments . Fraudsters often exploit situations such as shortages, delays, or public concern to lure victims into making quick payments without verification.

Police also urged citizens to act quickly if they become victims of such fraud. Anyone who loses money in a cyber scam should immediately contact the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or file a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) . Authorities say that prompt reporting can help officials track transactions and improve the chances of recovering the stolen money.

Officials reiterated that awareness and caution remain the most effective ways to prevent cyber fraud , urging people to verify information carefully before making any online payment related to essential services like LPG cylinder bookings.