Utility disconnection scam

Pay within the hour or your power goes off — a classic pressure play.

How it works

A caller claiming to be from your electricity, gas, or water provider says your account is overdue and a technician is already en route to disconnect. Payment must be immediate and by prepaid card, app, or crypto. Businesses get hit during lunch rush, households in cold snaps — whenever losing supply is unthinkable.

Red flags

Disconnection threatened within 30–60 minutes
Payment demanded by prepaid card, Zelle, or crypto
No prior letter or bill about arrears
Caller refuses to let you call back

Real-world example

"This is your power company. Your account is 60 days past due. A crew disconnects service in 45 minutes unless you pay $687 now by prepaid card."

What to do

01Hang up and call the number on your actual bill.
02Utilities send written notice long before any disconnection.
03Never pay a utility with gift cards or crypto — no provider accepts them.
04Report the call to your provider so they can warn other customers.

Related scams

Vishing (voice phishing)

Phone calls that impersonate your bank, Amazon, or a government agency.

Gift card payment scam

Any request to pay a stranger in gift cards is a scam.

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