The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has issued an urgent public advisory, on Tuesday, warning consumers against a surge in fraudulent phone calls, SMS and WhatsApp messages falsely claiming to be from DJB officials.
According to the statement released by the Board’s Public Relations Office, these communications are part of an organised attempt at extortion and are not authorised by the agency.
In recent days, several residents have reported receiving messages and calls threatening immediate disconnection of their water supply unless payments are made on the spot.
The Delhi Jal Board has clarified that such tactics are completely illegitimate and not aligned with its official procedures.
“These calls and messages are neither issued nor endorsed by the DJB,” the statement read. “They are fraudulent attempts to extort money under false pretenses. DJB does not authorize any individual or third party to collect payments through phone calls or messaging apps.”
The agency reiterated that all official communications from the Delhi Jal Board are issued via written notices or verified digital channels. Consumers have been advised to avoid sharing personal or financial information in response to unsolicited calls or messages and to refrain from making any payments without verifying the source.
If any individual receives such suspicious communication, the DJB urges them to report the incident immediately to the cybercrime helpline at 1930 or visit www.cibercrime.gov.in. Consumers can also verify the legitimacy of any message or demand by contacting their local Zonal Revenue Office (ZRO) or calling the DJB’s official helpline in 1916.
The Board has appealed to the public to remain vigilant and assist in curbing the spread of misinformation. “Public cooperation is crucial to ensure that these fraudulent activities do not harm innocent consumers,” the release stated.