Pakistan’s Ministry of Energy through Power Division has issued a public advisory warning electricity consumers against fraudulent activities involving fake subsidy schemes circulating through suspicious online links and QR codes. According to officials, hackers and criminal elements are reportedly attempting to exploit consumers by falsely presenting these scams as government backed electricity subsidy programs. The advisory comes amid growing concerns over cyber enabled fraud schemes targeting citizens through digital platforms, messaging services, and deceptive online campaigns designed to obtain sensitive personal information.
In its statement, Power Division explained that certain fraudulent actors are distributing suspicious links while falsely claiming to offer electricity bill subsidies to consumers. These deceptive campaigns reportedly encourage individuals to click on a specific online link and proceed through a four step process that requests personal information. Officials stated that after consumers submit their details, they are then prompted to provide a six digit verification code through the same platform. Authorities cautioned that these requests are not associated with any legitimate subsidy mechanism and are instead designed to collect sensitive data for unauthorized purposes. Power Division emphasized that such methods are illegal and fraudulent, warning consumers that cybercriminals may use the collected information for malicious activities, including identity misuse, unauthorized account access, or financial fraud.
The advisory also highlighted the misuse of QR codes as part of these fraudulent operations. According to the spokesperson, certain criminal elements are increasingly relying on QR code based techniques to mislead users into sharing confidential information or accessing compromised online platforms. Officials warned that users should remain cautious when scanning QR codes linked to electricity subsidies, financial relief, or utility related promotions unless verified through official government communication channels. Authorities stressed that no consumer should enter personal information digitally or on paper to receive electricity related subsidies through unofficial methods. The warning reflects broader concerns regarding digital fraud in Pakistan, where cyber enabled scams involving fake offers, phishing attempts, and impersonation tactics continue to evolve across sectors, including banking, telecommunications, and public services.
Power Division further confirmed that law enforcement agencies have been informed regarding the activities of individuals involved in the fraudulent campaign. Officials stated that steps are being taken to address the issue and monitor those responsible for attempting to deceive electricity consumers. The advisory serves as a reminder for the public to exercise caution when engaging with unsolicited messages, unfamiliar links, or QR codes claiming to provide financial assistance or government benefits. Consumers have also been encouraged to verify subsidy related announcements through official government platforms and avoid sharing verification codes, personal credentials, or sensitive account information through unverified channels.
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