Punxsutawney, PA – If you get a call from someone claiming to be from your utility company and demanding money, it’s likely a scam.
According to State Police in Punxsutawney, people who are claiming to be representatives from electric companies or other utility providers have been contacting citizens by phone and advising them their utility bill is past due. The caller then advises that unless the bill is paid in full immediately, the service will be shut off.
Although the caller might have a large amount of personal information about the individual they call, making the call seem legitimate, it’s a scam.
Be aware that it is easy for scammers to obtain personal information via the internet. A utility company is not going to ask for money over the phone.
Electric companies and other utility employees do no contact customers by telephone and ask for payment information such as bank account or credit card numbers.
If you receive one of these phone calls, do not to provide any information to the caller. Hang up immediately.
If you’re uncertain if a phone call if really coming from your legitimate utility company, you should contact the service provider with the phone number you have on record for the company, or go to their place of business and inquire about the call in person.
If you have already been contacted by a scam artist and have already given out personal information, you’re advised to monitor your bank account statements and credit reports. Contact police about the call.
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