The Ministry of Energy’s Power Division has issued a nationwide warning about a growing QR code electricity bill scam targeting electricity consumers across Pakistan. Officials said cybercriminals are attempting to misuse the newly introduced QR code verification system by creating fake subsidy registration links and stealing personal information from users.
According to the Power Division, hackers and fraudsters are misleading consumers by pretending to offer government subsidy registration services. Authorities warned that several fraudulent campaigns are circulating online and through unofficial platforms to trap people into sharing sensitive data.
Power Division Warns Consumers About Fraud
A spokesperson for the Power Division said malicious actors are exploiting public awareness regarding the new QR code registration system introduced for electricity bill subsidies. These individuals reportedly ask consumers to click on suspicious links and complete a fake verification process.
Officials explained that consumers are guided through a four step procedure in which they are asked to enter personal details. After providing information, users are allegedly instructed to submit a six digit verification code on the same fraudulent platform.
The spokesperson strongly warned consumers against entering any information on unofficial websites, social media links, or paper based forms claiming to offer subsidy registration services.
Authorities clarified that all legitimate verification procedures are connected only to the official QR code printed directly on electricity bills issued by distribution companies.
Personal Information at Risk
The Power Division emphasized that the QR code electricity bill scam is designed to steal personal and financial information from citizens. Cybercriminals may misuse the stolen data for illegal activities, including identity theft and financial fraud.
Officials urged consumers to remain cautious and avoid sharing details such as CNIC numbers, mobile phone numbers, bank information, passwords, or verification codes with unknown individuals or websites.
The spokesperson stated that law enforcement agencies have already been informed about the fraudulent activities. Authorities are reportedly working to identify those involved in the scam and prevent further exploitation of electricity consumers.
Consumers were also advised not to trust calls, text messages, WhatsApp messages, or social media advertisements claiming to provide fast track subsidy registration services.
New QR Code Verification System Explained
The federal government recently introduced a new QR code verification mechanism for subsidised electricity users. Under the updated system, consumers receiving government electricity subsidies must complete registration through the QR code printed on their monthly electricity bills.
According to officials, consumers need to scan the QR code and complete the registration process through the official online portal linked to the bill.
The government says the initiative aims to improve transparency and ensure that electricity subsidies reach deserving households, especially low income and protected consumers.
Officials clarified that the registration process should not be misunderstood as an attempt to end electricity subsidies.
Subsidies for Protected Consumers Will Continue
The Power Division reassured the public that subsidies for low electricity consuming households are not being removed. Instead, the registration system has been introduced to improve targeting and prevent misuse of government relief programs.
“This registration process is only intended to ensure that relief reaches poor and low electricity consuming households,” the spokesperson said.
Officials further stated that the system would help authorities identify genuine beneficiaries and improve accountability in the distribution of subsidies.
The clarification came after concerns spread on social media suggesting that the government planned to discontinue subsidies for protected consumers.
Consumers Asked to Use Only Official Channels
The Power Division advised consumers to use only official channels linked directly to their electricity bills for QR code registration. Citizens were urged to avoid clicking on unknown links or scanning QR codes shared through social media platforms, emails, or messaging applications.
Officials said awareness among consumers is essential to prevent online fraud and protect sensitive personal information.
The ministry also encouraged consumers to report suspicious messages and fraudulent subsidy offers to relevant authorities immediately.