DOMINION ENERGY: Five things to look out for to avoid utility scams
The holiday season brings a lot of joy, but one not so joyful thing that runs especially rampant during this time of the year is scammers and utility scams are no exception.
Luckily, Dominion Energy has a few pointers for customers on things to look out for to avoid becoming a victim of a utility scam yourself.
Firstly, know that just because a phone number appears to be legit, doesn't always mean it is. Vice President of customer experience for Dominion Energy explains that even if the caller ID says "Dominion Energy," it's what the person on the other line says after you pick up the phone you should be aware of.
Folks are advised to be on their guard if they observe any of these five warning signs:
- Threatening to disconnect service. Dominion Energy does not contact customers via phone threatening to disconnect services if you don't pay immediately.
- Asking for personal information like credit card numbers. Dominion Energy never demands any payment with a credit or debit card over the phone, nor will they ever ask a customer to wire transfer, send a money order or buy a pre paid gift card to pay a utility bill.
- Know that not all scammers are aggressive or threatening. Some could try to win you over by being more sympathetic and personable.
- Small business owners aren't immune either. Scammers often target small businesses such as restaurants and threaten service disconnection during peak business hours to instill a sense of fear and urgency.
- It's more than just over the phone. If anyone claiming to be a Dominion Energy employee shows up at your door or business, do not let them in or give them any personal information until you can verify their identity or if you know you've scheduled an appointment with the company. It's important to note that employees never ask for payment in person.
If you do notice any of these warning signs, there are three steps you can take:
- Hang up. Do not provide account, payment or any other personal information.
- Fact check. Scammers typically do not know your account balance. Customers can verify their account balance and payment due date online or on the Dominion Energy app.
- Seek help. Dominion Energy can help customers with financial hardships. Contact the company with any payment concerns you may have.
