State-owned oil marketing companies have issued an important warning for LPG consumers across India regarding a growing number of online delivery scams. Major companies including Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, Indian Oil Corporation, and Bharat Petroleum have alerted customers about fraudsters sending fake LPG delivery messages and making fraudulent calls in the name of gas agencies.
The companies shared the warning through their official social media platforms after reports of increasing cyber fraud cases targeting domestic LPG users.
Fake LPG Delivery Messages Targeting Customers
According to the advisory, scammers are sending fake SMS and WhatsApp messages that appear similar to official LPG delivery notifications. These messages are designed to trick customers into sharing sensitive details such as One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and Delivery Authentication Codes (DACs).
In several cases, fraudsters are also calling consumers while pretending to be gas agency representatives. They ask customers to complete KYC verification or Aadhaar linking to avoid disconnection of gas services. During the process, they request OTPs and other confidential information.
Oil companies have clearly stated that official representatives never ask customers to share OTPs through phone calls, WhatsApp chats, or suspicious links.
HPCL Shares Official Delivery Message Details
HPCL explained that genuine LPG delivery messages follow a specific format. According to the company, official delivery SMS messages are sent only from the sender name “VM-HPGASc-S” and contain a 4-digit OTP used only during cylinder delivery.
The company advised customers not to trust any urgent or suspicious-looking message that differs from the official format.
HPCL also clarified that its employees or delivery agents never ask customers to share OTPs over calls or messaging apps.
How LPG Consumers Can Stay Safe
Customers are advised to use only official platforms while booking LPG cylinders or updating account details. Consumers should avoid clicking unknown links or responding to messages received from personal mobile numbers.
Official apps recommended by the companies include:
Consumers should also regularly verify messages received from gas agencies and avoid sharing personal details without confirmation.
What To Do If You Become a Victim of LPG Scam
If any customer has accidentally shared banking details, OTPs, or lost money in such scams, they should immediately contact the National Cyber Crime Helpline by dialing 1930.
Cybercrime experts say that reporting fraud within the “golden hour” significantly increases the chances of freezing stolen funds and preventing further misuse.
Consumers can also report incidents through the official cybercrime portal managed by the Government of India.
Oil Companies Urge Customers To Remain Alert
With digital fraud cases increasing rapidly, oil marketing companies are encouraging LPG users to stay cautious while dealing with online messages and calls related to gas delivery services.
Customers are advised to trust only official communication channels and avoid sharing sensitive information with unknown callers or unverified platforms.
