Scam library
Utility shutoff threats
A supposed utility worker demands immediate payment to prevent your electricity, gas, or water being cut off.
What it looks like
Fictional example: Your electricity disconnect is scheduled in 30 minutes. Call 202-555-0102 to pay the emergency balance.
Fictional example: Our technician is nearby. Buy prepaid cards now and read us the codes to stop the shutoff.
How it works
Someone impersonates your utility and claims a missed bill or failed payment requires immediate action. They may know your address or make caller ID look familiar. The deadline pushes you to pay them before checking your actual account.
Warning signs
- Disconnection is threatened within minutes.
- Payment must be made by gift card, cryptocurrency, or a personal transfer.
- The caller discourages checking your regular account.
- They demand a second payment while promising to refund the first.
If you got one of these
- End the call and check your account through your usual app or website.
- Call the utility using the number printed on a previous bill.
- Ask the real utility about any balance, notice, or available payment arrangement.
- Forward suspicious texts to 7726 if supported by your carrier.
If you already paid or shared something
- Contact your bank, payment provider, or gift card issuer immediately and ask whether the payment can be stopped.
- Tell the real utility about the impersonation and confirm your actual account status.
- Keep payment receipts and messages, then report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Who gets targeted
Households and small businesses, especially during extreme temperatures or busy periods.