Utility Shutoff Scams
An urgent call from 'your power company' threatens imminent shutoff unless you pay right now — via gift cards, prepaid debit, or crypto. Small business owners during meal rushes are particularly targeted.
How it worksThe anatomy of the scam
Every case follows roughly the same playbook. Recognize the pattern, stop it early.
1. The urgent call
'This is [utility company]. A technician is on the way to disconnect your service in 30 minutes.'
2. Caller ID spoofing
Your phone displays the real utility company number.
3. Payment via gift card or crypto
'We can only accept payment via Green Dot cards in the next 10 minutes.'
4. The threat
If you hesitate, they escalate: 'Your restaurant will lose hundreds of dollars if the power goes out.'
Warning signsRed flags to watch for
If you're seeing two or more of these, assume it's a scam until proven otherwise.
Imminent shutoff threat
Real utilities send written notices weeks ahead.
Gift cards as payment
No utility takes Google Play cards.
Pressure to stay on the line
They don't want you calling the real company.
Protect yourselfDo this. Not that.
✓ Do
Hang up. Call your utility at the number on your most recent bill.
✗ Don't
Never pay a utility with gift cards, crypto, or wire transfer.
✓ Do
Tell staff and family that no real utility calls to demand gift card payments.
✗ Don't
Don't assume caller ID is real — spoofing is trivial.
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