Fake Mahanagar Gas App Scam Uses Call Forwarding to Drain Bank Accounts

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Fake Mahanagar Gas Scam Utilizes Call Forwarding Tactics to Empty Bank Accounts

Malicious actors are impersonating officials from Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL), employing phishing tactics and call forwarding schemes to deceive unsuspecting consumers into divulging sensitive financial information.

According to reports, the scammers initiate contact by sending fake gas bill notifications or making unsolicited phone calls, claiming that the recipient’s gas supply will be discontinued if they fail to settle outstanding balances promptly.

This coordinated effort has resulted in substantial financial losses across various regions, prompting authorities to issue warnings against falling prey to such scams.

The scammers pose as MGL customer care representatives, creating a sense of urgency among the recipients.
Once victims succumb to this pressure, they are directed to download and install suspicious APK files, which grant the attackers remote access to the compromised devices.
Experts warn that these malicious APK files permit the scammers to intercept bank-related One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and sensitive user data, allowing them to execute unauthorized transactions.
The use of call forwarding services enables the scammers to intercept banking alerts and OTPs without the victims’ knowledge.

Reports indicate that over 100 individuals have fallen victim to this scheme within a 30-day period, resulting in estimated losses exceeding ₹2.7 crores in Mumbai alone.

The victims encompass a diverse range of demographics, including senior citizens, teachers, business owners, and domestic workers from Maharashtra and Karnataka.
In one notable instance, a 60-year-old resident from Thane lost approximately ₹3.1 lakhs after installing a malicious APK file disseminated by the scammers.

To mitigate these risks, authorities advise users to refrain from downloading APK files received via SMS or unfamiliar links.

Legitimate MGL services do not necessitate customers to install additional software or applications.
Users should exercise extreme caution when receiving unsolicited calls or messages requesting sensitive information.
If suspicious communications are encountered, citizens are urged to report them through designated cybercrime reporting channels and verify all payment-related requests via trusted customer service platforms.