Cylinder Scam Alert: Officials Warn Public Against Fake 'Pay Now For Next-Day Delivery' LPG Ads

New Delhi: Amid growing concerns over LPG shortages, demand for cooking gas cylinders has surged across several parts of India, and cybercriminals are wasting no time cashing in on the panic.

Several fraudulent advertisements have flooded social media and messaging platforms, falsely promising quick or guaranteed cylinder deliveries. These posts includes offers like "Immediate Gas Cylinder Delivery" or "Emergency Extra Cylinder Supply" to create a false sense of urgency, pressuring anxious consumers into acting impulsively.

Following this, officials have issued a warning that fraudsters, or individuals who deceive others for financial gain, are taking advantage of the situation through these booking scams on social media. 

Fraudsters using fake ads and links

In a post on X, officials cautioned that the scams are designed to convince users to make advance online payments, after which the fraudsters disappear.

“Scams in the name of gas booking are increasing, and people need to remain alert,” officials warned.

They explained that cybercriminals are running fake advertisements on social media, targeting individuals searching online for gas bookings.

“They're running fake ads on social media, promising immediate cylinder delivery and extra cylinders. Through WhatsApp and SMS, they're sending links to fake websites to trap people,” the warning stated.

Authorities caution against advance payments

Further, he emphasised that any message or website claiming guaranteed or urgent gas supply in exchange for online payment should be treated as suspicious.

“If you receive messages claiming a guaranteed gas supply if you pay money online first, people should understand that these are definitely cyber scams,” the advisory said.

He also urged consumers not to click on suspicious links and to rely only on verified platforms.

“For cylinder bookings or online payments, rely only on the official websites of gas companies or authorised gas agencies,” the advisory added.

Personal and banking details at risk

Officials further warned that victims could lose sensitive financial information if they interact with such fraudulent websites.

“Even if you see attractive offers, never share your bank account details, OTP, UPI PIN or similar information with unknown individuals under any circumstances,” the warning said.

They added that entering information on fake portals could allow cybercriminals to gain access to personal and banking details, potentially leading to financial losses.

“By entering details on fake websites, your personal and financial information could fall into the hands of cybercriminals, risking your bank accounts being emptied,” the advisory noted.

Helpline for victims of cyber fraud

Authorities also urged people who may have already fallen victim to such scams to immediately report the incident.

“If you have fallen victim to such a cyber scam, immediately call the National Cyber Crime Helpline number 1930 or file a complaint on the website cybercrime.gov.in,” officials advised.

With tensions in the Middle East continuing to affect global energy markets, authorities have urged citizens to remain cautious online and avoid falling prey to fraudulent schemes related to gas cylinder bookings.

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