The government has sounded a sharp warning after the PIB Fact Check unit exposed a forged approval letter falsely claiming to grant an LPG distributorship from Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) in Telangana’s Jogulamba Gadwal district.
The revelation has once again brought the spotlight on an expanding network of frauds that misuse public sector branding to trap unsuspecting citizens.
According to PIB Fact Check, the viral letter attempted to pass off as an official HPCL communication. It carried the company’s logo, formatting, and authoritative language, but contained entirely fabricated details.
The document falsely claimed that an individual had secured an LPG distributorship. It listed specific paperwork requirements, timelines and monetary charges. None of these align with HPCL’s actual procedures.
Officials confirmed that the letter was completely fake and part of a broader scam ecosystem operating across several states since 2024.
These schemes typically target individuals seeking business opportunities linked to government-backed fuel and gas agencies. They capitalise on public trust in public sector undertakings.
The fact-checking agency made it clear that HPCL does not issue LPG distributorship approvals through unsolicited letters, emails, or personal communications.
There are no ‘processing fees’, ‘approval charges’, or advance payments involved at any stage. Any communication suggesting otherwise is fraudulent by definition.
HPCL has repeatedly clarified through public advisories that it allots LPG distributorships only through a transparent, centralised selection process.
Applicants must apply online, and HPCL conducts final selections through a public draw on the official portal,lpgvitarakchayan.in.
The website prominently displays anti-fraud warnings, urging applicants to remain cautious and rely only on verified sources.
An approval letter allegedly issued by @HPCL is claiming to provide the LPG agency dealership/ distributorship.#PIBFactCheck
❌ This approval letter is #FAKE.
▶️ Visit the official website https://t.co/UjnPSa8FR6 for authentic information. pic.twitter.com/YwGRiX9stS
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) December 21, 2025
PIB Fact Check highlighted that scammers deliberately mimic official language and logos to create a sense of urgency and legitimacy.
Victims often realise the deception only after transferring money or sharing sensitive personal documents.
Authorities have flagged this pattern as a serious threat, especially in rural and semi-urban regions where awareness remains limited.
The exposure of the fake HPCL letter underscores the government’s growing emphasis on digital vigilance and public awareness.
Officials urged citizens to verify any claim related to government schemes or public sector opportunities through official portals or helplines before taking action.
The government has also appealed to the public to report suspicious communications immediately. It stressed that early reporting helps prevent wider damage. Such action also protects others from falling prey to similar scams.
As fraudsters become more sophisticated, the message from authorities is unequivocal: transparency leaves a digital trail, while scams thrive on secrecy and a sense of urgency. Citizens are advised to trust processes, not promises, and portals, not paperwork.
Also Read: PIB Fact Check Debunks Viral Claim Of Prime Ministerial Change On 21st
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