Whereas you may be used to paying your utility bill online or via automatic payments, scammers will often ask to use"unusual payment methods," according to the warning. These include digital payment apps, cryptocurrencies, or money transfers.
If someone contacts you and asks for payment in this form, it should raise red flags. Police urge customers only to send payments using"established methods" when making sure that a utility bill is paid off.These criminals are not stopping at phone calls, they might even show up at your door.
If you have an outstanding balance, the employee would also explain how a payment can be made with the established methods, never requiring you to pay via a pre-paid money card.Regardless of how these criminals contact you, staying vigilant is key. Police and FirstEnergy ask you to hang up if you receive a suspected scam call, and close the door if something about a visitor feels off.
"If you have any doubts about the status of your account or the identify of a FirstEnergy employee, contact your electric company at the number listed on your bill or the company's website," the warning said."Never call the number the scammer provides." If you're targeted in one of these schemes, you should also contact both FirstEnergy and your local police department, according to Chatham police.