State agency warns of utility scam

According to a news release, reports show consumers have been contacted in person and via fliers, social media, or phone and text messages with claims that a new federal program put in place by President Obama is providing credits or applying payments to utility bills.

To receive money, scammers have been claiming they need consumers' Social Security and bank routing numbers. Utility customers, in turn, are given a fake banking routing number the scammers say will pay their utility bills.

"People should always take steps to protect their personal information, such as Social Security numbers, credit cards or bank account numbers," PSC Chairman Kevin Gunn said in the release.

The PSC offers these tips for preventing identity theft:

• Don't give out personal information on the phone, in the mail or on the Internet unless the contact was initiated by the consumer and the consumer feels certain about the company with whom he is dealing.

• Always confirm that only a legitimate organization is receiving personal information.

• Don't give out credit card information to an online vendor unless it is encrypted and the Web site is secure.

• Don't write down Social Security numbers or telephone numbers on checks or credit card receipts.

• Shred documents containing personal and company information before throwing them away.

• If visited by a utility worker, ask for proper identification. Don't allow anyone inside the home or business to check electrical wiring, gas pipes or appliances unless an appointment has been scheduled.