The Better Business Bureau Northwest & Pacific said it has received reports from people getting phone calls claiming to be from Puget Sound Energy saying their power will be shut off if they don’t pay.
The BBB says utility company imposters will typically call or knock on someone’s door claiming to be a representative from the local water, electric or gas company.
The most common scenario is for the scammer to tell the victim their payment is overdue and the utility will be shut off if the bill is not paid immediately.
The BBB says there are ways for you to spot the scam:
Restrictive payment methods: If a caller specifically asks you to pay by prepaid debit card or wire transfer, this is a huge warning sign. Your utility company will accept a check or credit card, which are payment methods which are easier to track and later dispute if needed.
Pressure to pay immediately: If you feel pressured for immediate payment or personal information, hang up the phone and call the customer service number on your utility bill. This will ensure you are speaking to a real representative.
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of a scam should contact their local police and report it to BBB Scam Tracker at bbb.org/scamtracker.
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Cox Media Group
