AG warns of utility scams

Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin issued a warning about scams related to utility shut-offs.

“My office receives many complaints from consumers who have been deceived by utility impersonation scams. Imposters threaten to shut off utility service if the consumer doesn’t immediately pay a past due amount. It is important to be cautious and informed, so that you aren’t a victim of one of these scams,” Griffin said in a news release.

Here are some helpful tips to keep you safe from utility impersonation scams:

■ Utility companies must provide adequate notice when bills are past due to give consumers time to pay their bills and to avoid shutoffs.

■ Utility companies will often allow consumers to enter into delayed payment agreements so that the consumer doesn’t have to pay the overdue bill all at once.

■ Utility companies will usually send a shut off notice via mail or email. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a representative of your gas, electric, or water utility threatening to shut off your service, be alert and do not pay them.

■ Your utility company will never ask you to pay with gift cards, bitcoin, or app transfers.

■ If you receive such a call, hang up and call your utility provider at the number on your last account statement to verify or discuss the status your account.

■ If you did pay, call your financial institution and/or the source of the payment to try to stop the payment.

■ File a complaint with the AG’s office immediately. Exercise caution when answering calls from unknown numbers, especially when the caller is threatening you or demanding money.

If you wish to file a complaint with the Attorney General’s office, call (800) 482-8982, email consumer@arkansasag.gov, or visit ArkansasAG.gov.