LPG Booking: Making this one mistake before accepting cylinder delivery could prove costly; gas companies issue a warning..

To prevent malpractices in LPG gas cylinder deliveries, the Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) has now been made mandatory, and 100% of deliveries are being processed through this system. The objective of the DAC is to ensure that the cylinder reaches the intended consumer directly. However, cyber fraudsters have now turned this very DAC into a tool to defraud people. In light of this threat, HP Gas, Indane, and Bharat Gas have issued warnings to their consumers. These warnings instruct consumers on how to identify a genuine DAC and when it is appropriate to share it.

HP Gas stated on the social media platform ‘X’: “Fraudsters posing as LPG Support Executives may call you and ask you to share your ‘Delivery Authentication Code’ under various pretexts—such as booking confirmation, KYC updates, or expediting cylinder delivery. Sharing an OTP due to even a moment of carelessness can lead to fraudulent delivery confirmations and even financial fraud. Remember: HPCL will *never* ask you for your OTP over the phone. Never share your ‘Delivery Authentication Code’ before the cylinder has physically reached your doorstep. No Cylinder. No OTP.”

**How ​​to Distinguish Between Genuine and Fake**

In its ‘X’ post, HP Gas explained that the company sends the DAC—along with the booking confirmation details—to the consumer's mobile number exclusively from the official sender ID: **VM-HPGASc-S**. This code consists of a four-digit OTP. It is to be used solely at the time of the actual cylinder delivery.

Bharat Gas messages arrive from the sender ID: **JX-BPCLIN-T**. The company issues a six-digit DAC code. Along with the DAC message, you receive confirmation that your cylinder has been booked; the message also advises you to check the cylinder's seal and weight upon delivery and includes the company's helpline number. Indane’s DAC messages originate from official IDs such as **VK-INDANE** or **VM-INDANE**. Indane’s DAC is also a six-digit code. 

Be Cautious if Anyone Asks for Your DAC via Phone Call or WhatsApp
The company has stated that HP Gas employees will never ask you for an OTP via phone call, WhatsApp, or any suspicious link. If someone calls you—deceptively claiming that your cylinder has been booked or promising immediate delivery—and asks for your DAC, be vigilant and do not share your OTP.

When Should You Share Your DAC?
Gas companies have clarified that the DAC/OTP is a personal security code. You should never disclose it to anyone over the phone, nor should you enter it into any online form. This code is intended for use only at the time of physical delivery; that is, you should provide this code to the delivery personnel only after you have received your cylinder.