There are a couple of popular scams going around the country right now that you need to know about. The common thread among them all? Crooks masquerading as employees of power or utility companies!
Power Company Spoofers Are Hot Right Now
So, picture this: Somebody knocks on your door says they’re from your power company, or your water company or your natural gas provider. And the next thing out of their mouth is, ‘You’re being shut off for lack of payments.’
Or here’s another variation targeting small businesses: Scamsters hit restaurants at peak times like lunch and impersonate people from the power company. Again, they say your service is being shut off, but we can avoid this if you pay now. (They’ll only accept cash.)
Here’s yet another version: You get a call that is supposedly a disconnect notice–a courtesy reminder that your power is being shut off. But, you can pay right now over the phone with credit, debit or your checking account info.
The reality is each utility — be it water, power, natural gas — has a clear procedure where you’re notified if there’s going to be a shut off. These scammers just work on the basis of fear and emotion and steal your money. Don’t let them have it!
For more money-saving advice that will protect your wallet, see our Scams & Ripoffs section.
