Scam artists are altering caller IDs, claiming to be from a utility company and saying customers’ utilities will be shut off immediately if not paid right away, according to a press release from Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge.
Customers who receive these calls should hang up and call their utility company using the phone number on their bill to verify the information. Customers should never make a payment or give out personal financial information to someone calling unsolicited and demanding immediate payment.
“Never give out any personal information over the phone,” Rutledge said. “Arkansans should be skeptical if the caller requests immediate payment through nontraditional channels, like prepaid debit cards or wire transfers. Always be cautious of unsolicited calls and consider hanging up and finding the company’s phone number from independent sources and calling them to confirm any outstanding balance.”
Rutledge released the following tips to ensure payment is sent to the utility company safely, securely and timely:
• Add your utility payment due date on a calendar when a bill is received.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
• Drop off the payment at the utility office or an authorized payment location.
• Pay online on the utility company’s website with a credit card or call the company directly.
• Consider participating in an automated draft system, if it is offered.
• Mail the payment to the company directly.
“If you have been contacted by one of these scammers, notify the utility company. If you fall victim to one of these phone calls, file a complaint with the Attorney General,” the release said.
Details: Arkansas Attorney General’s office, 800-482-8982 or visit ArkansasAG.gov or facebook.com/AGLeslieRutledge.