Ministry of Energy’s Power Division has issued an important advisory for electricity consumers regarding the QR code verification system recently introduced on monthly power bills. It warned the public about fraudulent activities being carried out by cybercriminals.
According to the Power Division, scammers and hackers are attempting to exploit consumers by pretending to offer government electricity subsidy registration services. Officials stated that certain malicious individuals are misusing QR code systems to steal personal information and carry out illegal activities.
A spokesperson for the Power Division explained that consumers are being directed to suspicious links through a fake four-step registration process. Victims are allegedly asked to enter personal information and later provide a six-digit verification code on the same fraudulent platform. Consumers strongly advised not to enter personal or financial information on any website or any platform unless it is directly connected to the official QR code printed on their electricity bill.
According to authorities, such methods are entirely illegal and not connected to the official subsidy verification system.
Further, the spokesperson of Power Division added that law enforcement agencies have already been informed about the scam attempts and investigations are underway against those involved in such activities.
However, the government recently launched a new QR code verification mechanism for electricity consumers receiving subsidised power tariffs. Eligible consumers must scan the QR code printed on their monthly electricity bills and complete registration through the official online portal to continue benefiting from government subsidies.
Officials say the purpose of this initiative is to ensure transparency and guarantee that financial relief reaches deserving low income consumers.
The Power Division also clarified that the registration process should not be misunderstood as the end of electricity subsidies.
“This process is only meant to confirm that subsidies are reaching poor households and consumers with low electricity usage,” the spokesperson stated, adding that the subsidy programme itself remains fully in place.
However, consumers have been urged to remain cautious and avoid clicking on suspicious links. They are advised to rely only on official government channels for registration and verification procedures related to electricity bill subsidies.
