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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 20, 2022
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Utility Imposter Scam: Utilities Never Call to Threaten Turn-Off Over the Phone |
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The Department of Attorney General has received numerous calls regarding a new utility imposter scam claiming to be from DTE and an immediate need for payment to avoid shut-off.
What to look out for:
- A call claiming to be from DTE, stating they are sending field staff to turn off electricity?because of?nonpayment.??
- Immediate payment, through a debit/gift card or pay app (Zelle) is required to avoid electricity shut-off.?
- A promise of returning the funds if it's later determined was made.
- The number on the caller ID shows DTE?s real?toll-free number.??
Protect Yourself
- Neither form of payment is regulated, and both are irreversible and untraceable.
- Utility companies will never demand payment be made immediately or ask for payment in an unusual payment form.
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Utility companies won't make unannounced visits to collect a bill or threaten shut-off.??
Scammers can be convincing and often target those who are most vulnerable, including senior citizens and low-income communities. They also direct their scams at small business owners during busy service hours. However, with the right information, utility customers can learn to detect and report these predatory scams.
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