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Greater Sudbury hydro alerts public of phone scam

Greater Sudbury Utilities is again receiving reports from customers saying they've received a phone call purportedly from GSU threatening disconnection if money isn't paid today, with specific instructions.
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Greater Sudbury Utilities is warning the public about an ongoing phone scam in which callers are told they must immediately pay their bill over the phone or face disconnection. File photo.
Greater Sudbury Utilities is again receiving reports from customers saying they've received a phone call purportedly from GSU threatening disconnection if money isn't paid today, with specific instructions.

The latest calls actually even add a fictitious supervisor's name. In a release, the GSU says the scammer's script goes something like this:

"This is Supervisor Harper calling from GSU, you will be disconnected if money isn't paid today -- go to your local convenience store and get a Pay Power Reloaded gift card, load the card with money and call 1-866-978-7068 with the gift card info".

“These calls are attempts to steal your money,” the GSU release said. “If you receive a call similar to this, do not give out any information. Report the phone call to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or contact your local police department.”

Anyone concerned that their account is past due should phone the contact number on their bill and speak to a customer service representative.

“Neither Greater Sudbury Utilities nor its affiliate, Greater Sudbury Hydro, contacts customers by phone to demand money immediately via pre-paid credit card,” the release said.

“If your account is in arrears, you will receive several written notices, and a final visit at your door by a representative with identification and a list of ways you can pay your account. Phone calls are not part of the process.”

The scam isn't exclusive to the GSU. Residential and business accounts across Ontario have reported similar fraudulent phone calls, the release said.

“As March is Fraud Prevention Month, we urge all consumers to get educated, and to discuss fraud prevention with family and friends.”

For more information on this and other scams, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre Website.

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