Residential utility consumers need to be aware of an ongoing scam seeking to steal their personal information.
Scammers are posing as utility company representatives offering false claims that President Barack Obama will help pay utility bills through a federal program. No new programs have been created to help consumers pay their utility bills.
The scam has been reported in numerous states and involves the scammers seeking personal information, such as social security numbers and credit card information. Victims are then given a fraudulent bank routing number to send utility payments.
People have been targeted in person, by phone, text message, email, and social media. If consumers feel they have been a victim of this or any other scam, they should report it to their local police. Scams also can be reported to the Ohio Attorney General at 1-800-282-0515.
Remember to protect personal information. Consumers’ personal information is never needed, or asked for, to pay a utility bill. The Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel has information on its website about the guidelines legitimate utility solicitors must follow, in accordance with Ohio law.
Low-income consumers who qualify for utility assistance can use the Summer Crisis Program through Aug. 31. Consumers should contact their county community action agency to apply. For more information about this program, call the Ohio Department of Development at 1-800-282-0880.
About Marion Online News
