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Energy Companies Warn Consumers Against Phone Scam

Martin Cathrae
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https://www.flickr.com/photos/suckamc/11059685

A familiar scam targeting energy customers is popping up around the state again.

Duke Energy is among those warning its customers to be on the lookout for a phone call which sounds like it comes from the company.

On the other end is usually a threat – someone claiming to be from the utility who says they’ll shut off services if a bill isn’t paid immediately.

But the scam has one major hole – the person on the other end asks for a pre-paid debit card so they can drain the balance.

Duke Energy officials say that’s a practice they do not employ.

The company says it sends disconnect notices with monthly bills and does not place a phone call an hour before service is supposedly to be shut off.

Utility customers receiving such a call should alert local police and their energy provider.