BBB® warns of utility bill payment scam
Pensacola, Fla. (July 10, 2012) – A new scam is sweeping the nation by claiming that President Obama will pay your utility bills through a new federal stimulus program. Customers nationwide, including some in northwest Florida have reported the scam, and several energy companies across the country have issued warnings to their customers about it.
How the Scam Works:
Consumers have been contacted in person and through fliers, social media, phone calls and text messages with claims that President Obama is providing credits or applying payments to utility bills.
Scammers claim they need the consumers' social security and bank routing numbers in order for them to receive the money. In return, customers are given a phony bank routing number that will supposedly pay their utility bills. In reality, there is no money, customers believe they have paid their bills when in fact they have not, and they have now put themselves at risk of identity fraud.
Scammers claim they need the consumers' social security and bank routing numbers in order for them to receive the money. In return, customers are given a phony bank routing number that will supposedly pay their utility bills. In reality, there is no money, customers believe they have paid their bills when in fact they have not, and they have now put themselves at risk of identity fraud.
Tips to Avoid Falling for this Scam:
Ø Never provide your social security number, credit card number or banking information to anyone requesting it over the phone or at your home unless you initiated the contact and feel confident with whom you are speaking.
Ø If you receive a call claiming to be your utility company and feel pressured for immediate payment or personal information, hang up the phone and call the customer service number on your utility bill.
Ø Never allow anyone into your home to check electrical wiring, natural gas pipes or appliances unless you have scheduled an appointment or have reported a utility problem. If you have reported a problem, ask utility employees for proper identification.
Ø Always think safety first. Do not give in to high pressure tactics over the phone for information or in-person to get into your home.
For more information about scams in your area, check out BBB's complete scam directory.
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