Tampa Businesses Targeted For Phone Scam

TAMPA, FL -- Due to recent reports of utility scams in the area, the Tampa Police Department is working with Tampa Electric to urge customers to be wary of anyone demanding payment for a power bill, either in person or over the phone.

The basic premise of the scam is:
* Someone falsely claiming to be a Tampa Electric representative calls a business during a busy time like lunch rush at a restaurant.
* The scammer may have a phone number that appears to be from Tampa Electric, which adds to the scammer's credibility.
* The scammer claims the account is past due and instructs the customer to buy a prepaid debit card from a local drug store to avoid disconnection.
* In some cases, the scammer has ensnared customers.

Tampa Electric never demands payment in person or calls to ask for credit card or debit card numbers. If you are uncertain about an individual's association with Tampa Electric - or about your bill - contact the company for verification:
* In Hillsborough County, call 813-223-0800
* In Polk County, call 863-299-0800
* In all other areas, call 1-888-223-0800

Image via Shutterstock

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