As we make our way through the winter season, utility
companies want customers to be reminded about common utility scams. According
to Utilities United Against Scams (UUAS), a growing number of
gas, electricity, water and communications consumers are getting calls and
visits from imposters out to steal personal and financial data.
A common utility con involves a caller posing as a utility billing representative claiming that you have an overdue bill, and in order to avoid an immediate shut-off, you must provide a credit card number or prepaid debit card.
Sadly, scammers are meeting with great success using this tactic. According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), the median loss for a utility scam victim is $500.
Here are a few reminders to keep yourself and your data protected:
A common utility con involves a caller posing as a utility billing representative claiming that you have an overdue bill, and in order to avoid an immediate shut-off, you must provide a credit card number or prepaid debit card.
Sadly, scammers are meeting with great success using this tactic. According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), the median loss for a utility scam victim is $500.
Here are a few reminders to keep yourself and your data protected:
- All UUAS-affiliated utility employees carry photo identification.
- Field workers generally wear clothing with the company logo and drive company vehicles. When in doubt, do not allow them in - and if they persist, call 911.
- UUAS utility representatives never demand instant payment in person or over the phone.
- Utility representatives do not require the use of prepaid debit cards (such as Green Dot MoneyPak, MyVanilla or Reloadit).
- Utility workers will never request customers meet them at a payment center, such as a department or grocery store, to make a payment.
The Utilities United Against Scams website provides more information
on how to protect personal information and avoid becoming a victim of utility
scams. Stay warm, safe and protected Lexington.
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