DP&L warns of new scams

Dayton Power and Light warns of scams

Dayton Power and Light warns of scams

Dayton Power and Light is warning customers of three new scams.

The electric utility said Wednesday it has received reports about a scam where customers say they have been contacted by someone claiming to represent DP&L — and indicating that their electric service would be disconnected if they did not immediately provide payment information.

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DP&L identified three common scam attempts:

1. Callers asking customers to send a pre-paid debit card to pay a bill or to replace equipment.

2. Callers threatening disconnection if payment is not sent now.

3. Callers targeting small businesses during peak business hours, such as restaurants at lunch time. The scammers try to catch employees off guard to gain account information, and to instill fear that power will be turned off.

“In all cases, the scammers are trying to defraud customers,” DP&L said in a statement. “They often target elderly people and small businesses that are fearful their electricity may be turned off unless they comply immediately.”

DP&L advises customers not to provide personal information or comply with requests for payments.

“Before you do anything, hang up and call DP&L at (800) 433-8500 to ask questions about anyone contacting you about your bill or claiming to be from the utility,” the company said.

The company warns customers never give anyone personal information such as your Social Security number, bank account number or credit card number unless you initiated the conversation.

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