Patna: Cyber fraudsters have found a new pretext to dupe unsuspecting citizens in Bihar—this time, by exploiting the state government’s promise of 125 units of free electricity. Despite repeated public awareness drives, scammers continue to siphon crores of rupees daily from victims by adapting to new schemes and official announcements.
The latest con involves a fraudulent message claiming that recipients must click a link and enter an OTP to avail the free electricity benefit announced by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Victims are warned that failing to act will result in their electricity not being subsidised. Once the link is clicked and details shared, scammers gain access to bank accounts, draining funds almost instantly.
This tactic is part of a broader trend in cybercrime that blends fear and temptation—posing as officials from law enforcement, courts, or offering too-good-to-be-true financial opportunities. Terms like “digital arrest” have even become part of the scammers’ repertoire, where fake legal actions are used to extort money.
Authorities note that Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of Haryana have become major hubs for cyber fraud in India. Law enforcement agencies are grappling with the sheer scale and adaptability of these criminal networks.
In response, electricity distribution companies are urging consumers not to engage with any such messages. Officials have clarified that the benefit of 125 free units will be applied automatically to domestic bills beginning August 1, as per the state’s directive. Consumers using less than 125 units will pay nothing, and those exceeding it will be billed only for the surplus.
Smart meter users, too, are not required to recharge for usage up to the allotted free units. The benefit will be reflected directly in their monthly statements.
The scheme, announced by CM Nitish Kumar on July 17, is set to benefit over 1.67 crore households. The government has also unveiled plans to install solar power systems on rooftops or public land nearby within three years, aiming to generate 10,000 MW of electricity from solar energy across the state.
