News Release
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Three reports of calls from people impersonating hydro
Following on the heels of a recent bulletin issued by the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre warning consumers and businesses about calls from people impersonating utility companies who claim to be collecting payment for overdue bills, the North Bay Police Service echoes this warning and advises local business owners and residents to not fall victim to these fraudulent calls.
The North Bay Police Service has received three reports from local residents and businesses to say they have been called by these fraudsters. The caller advises that there is an overdue hydro bill and payment is required immediately or the services will be shut off.
Traditionally, fraudsters will request payment via credit card, however with this scam, the caller requests payment by prepaid debit/credit cards with Pay Power Cards and Green Dot Cards being the primary choices. No photo identification is required to purchase these cards and the funds are difficult to trace once loaded to the card.
Warning Signs - How to Protect Yourself
· While utility companies do contact customers via phone from time to time, they would never request a payment by prepaid debit or credit card over the phone. Check your monthly bill. Overdue payments and information on payment methods appear on them.
· Call the customer service number on your utility bill; this will ensure that you are speaking to a real employee of the company.
· Never give out any personal information over the phone to unsolicited callers.
· Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you feel pressured by a caller, just hang up!
Help stop these scams
Help stop fraudulent activity by reporting calls such as these to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (previously known as Phone Busters) at 1-888-495-8501 or visit www.antifraudcentre.ca.
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