Expect utility scams to increase with the change in seasons later this month.
The Office of Kansas Attorney General says utilities have already noted an increase in calls from customers about scammers, many threatening to shut off water or utility services within hours or days unless ratepayers divulge their financial information and then pay the imposter. Many of the scams involve payment by pre-paid credit card or gift card, while others may involve alleged attempts to update credit card or banking information.
Scammers may claim the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the company’s operations and updates are needed or the company can’t process check or card payments unless personal information is updated.
There is a relatively new scam to add: solar panel installation companies, who may be going door-to-door, claiming they have partnerships with electric providers before trying to get buyers to agree to financial deals that last longer than the system’s expected life span.
If you have questions about the status of your bills, contact your utility. If you believe you have been the subject of a scam attempt or have given out personal information, call local authorities and the Attorney General’s consumer protection hotline at 800-432-2310. More information is available at www.InYourCornerKansas.org.
