According to EVNHCMC, scammers typically inform customers that their electricity meter is scheduled for replacement and then request payments ranging from several hundred thousand to several million Vietnamese dong, claiming “the fees are for the purchase of a new meter” or “installation labor costs”.

In some cases, customers are asked to transfer a deposit to a personal bank account to “schedule a technician” for the meter replacement. More seriously, some impostors have even removed existing meters and installed equipment of unknown origin in order to collect cash from residents.

EVNHCMC emphasizes that all periodic meter replacements and upgrades from mechanical meters to smart electronic meters are provided completely free of charge. Customers should not make any payment for meter replacement services and should remain cautious of any request for cash payments or bank transfers to personal accounts.

The Corporation also advises customers to obtain information about meter replacement schedules only through EVNHCMC's official communication channels and to contact the Customer Care Center at 1900 54 54 54 if they encounter any suspicious individuals claiming to represent the electricity sector or requesting unauthorized payments.

If customers receive suspicious messages or requests in the name of the electricity industry, they should verify the information through EVNHCMC's official channels, including the "Ho Chi Minh City Power Corporation" Facebook page, the "TCT Điện lực TP.HCM – EVNHCMC" Zalo Official Account, the EVNHCMC mobile application, the EVNHCMC website www.evnhcmc.vn, email cskh@hcmpc.com.vn, or the National Public Service Portal, to avoid becoming victims of fraud.

Translator: Thu Hường