How To Stay Safe From IOC Job Scams And Fake LPG Distributorship Offers

Concerns are increasing among consumers as fraudsters misuse the name of Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) to run fake job offers and LPG distributorship schemes. These scams often appear through emails, WhatsApp messages, and social media posts, demanding hefty deposits from unsuspecting people. Many victims have already lost lakhs of rupees. IOC has clarified that it is not linked to such offers and will not be responsible for any losses.

Fake Job Offers in IOC’s Name

Scammers are spreading false job opportunities claiming to be from IOC. The corporation has repeatedly confirmed that it never issues job notices via WhatsApp, Gmail, or private agents.

• Genuine recruitment updates are only published in leading newspapers, in government employment journals like Employment News or Rozgar Samachar, and on IOC’s official website –www.iocl.com
• IOC does not outsource hiring to consultants or middlemen.
• Only an application fee, clearly mentioned in official advertisements, is ever charged. Any demand for extra money is a clear sign of fraud.

Fake LPG Distributorship Allotments

Fraudsters are also targeting people with bogus LPG distributorship allotments, using the names of IOC, BPCL, or HPCL. Victims often receive emails, letters, or calls claiming they have been awarded a dealership. They are then asked to pay advance deposits.

The oil companies have clarified:

• They do not appoint any agents or middlemen for distributorship selection.
• Authentic information is available only on their official websites and the government portal – www.lpgvitarakchayan.in

How to Identify and Avoid Scams

To protect yourself, look out for these warning signs:

• Fraudsters usually avoid meeting in person.
• They often use free email IDs and pressurise victims to make quick payments.
• Genuine allotments always follow a transparent online process and include on-ground verification.

Reporting Fraudulent Activities

Anyone receiving suspicious offers should:

• Immediately report the matter to the local police.
• Inform the nearest oil company office.

IOC has also stated that it cannot be held responsible for losses caused by fraudsters.

Trust Only Official Sources

For those interested in jobs or distributorships, the safest way is to rely solely on the official websites of IOC, BPCL, and HPCL. Awareness within communities is vital to prevent others from falling victim to similar scams.