Extreme heat gives rise to utility scams
By Greg Collier
With the current high heat temperatures hitting the region, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is issuing a warning to residents to be on high alert for utility scams. These scams tend to spike during extreme weather events when people are more reliant on their utilities, such as air conditioning, making them more vulnerable to threats of service termination.
Scammers often pose as employees of water, electric, and gas companies, employing various tactics to deceive both residents and business owners. They typically contact potential victims via phone calls, texts, or by knocking on doors.
The most common utility scam is the shut-off scam. This scam involves scammers posing as representatives from the power company when contacting their victims over the phone. They threaten to terminate the victim’s electric service due to an alleged past-due balance, insisting that the service will be disconnected within 15 to 30 minutes unless an immediate payment is made. These scammers often demand payment through unconventional methods such as gift cards, and in some cases, they have instructed victims to use Bitcoin ATMs for payment.
However, the BBB is now reporting that some utility scammers are taking it one step further by showing up to the doors of their victims. Posing as utility employees, scammers may show up at your door in what appears to be a credible uniform. They might claim that your meter is malfunctioning and needs immediate replacement at your expense, or that they need access to your property to make necessary repairs or conduct an energy audit. The true intent is often to steal items or gather personal information.
The BBB emphasizes that requests for prepaid debit cards, gift cards, digital wallet apps, or wire transfers are significant red flags. Pressure for immediate payment and personal information is another warning sign. To protect yourself, you can follow these steps.
If you receive a suspicious call or message, hang up and call the customer service number listed on your utility bill. Do not allow anyone into your home or business unless you have a scheduled appointment or have reported a problem directly to your utility company.
If you believe you have been targeted or have fallen victim to a scam, contact your local police and report the incident to BBB Scam Tracker.
By following these guidelines, you can safeguard your personal information and finances from falling into the wrong hands.
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