PUCO warns about utility bill scam

COLUMBUS

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio reminds utility customers to beware of a payment scam that has surfaced across the state over the past several weeks.

This scam targets electric and gas utility customers that are both residential and small businesses.

A caller will claim to be from a utility company and inform the customer that money is owed from a past bill and it must be paid immediately or face service termination.

Customers are then instructed to purchase a pre-paid debit card and call a toll-free number to transfer the money.

PUCO says most utility companies do not ask for the pre-paid debit cards and give customers an ample amount of time to pay before service is terminated.

PUCO lists regulated utility company customer service numbers on its website.

Customers are encouraged to contact their utility companies and the local authorities.