The Punjab Healthcare Commission has issued a public warning about a rise in fraudulent activities in which individuals impersonate commission officials to extort money and obtain sensitive information from healthcare providers and the general public.
In its advisory, the commission stated that scammers are contacting clinics, hospitals, and practitioners through phone calls and messages while falsely claiming to be PHC inspectors or representatives.
These individuals reportedly offer to settle matters related to inspections, licensing, penalties, and complaints in exchange for payments.
The PHC said fraudsters are using fake letterheads, forged documents, counterfeit stamps, challans, and WhatsApp profiles to make their claims appear legitimate.
The commission clarified that it does not authorize any individual or third party to collect fees, donations, or service charges on its behalf.
It further emphasized that all official payments are processed only through designated banking channels into accounts titled “Punjab Healthcare Commission” and against digitally generated challans.
Officials urged healthcare establishments and the public to remain cautious and avoid transferring money or sharing personal information in response to suspicious communications.
The PHC also advised citizens to report any impersonation attempts to law enforcement authorities immediately. It warned that individuals who make payments to unverified accounts do so at their own risk, and the commission cannot be held responsible for any resulting financial losses.
Authorities noted that the advisory comes amid increasing concerns over the misuse of official identities and forged documentation to target healthcare providers across Punjab.