Power Shut-Off Threat Call: The Utility Scam

A caller claims to be your electric, gas, or water company and says your service will be shut off within the hour over an unpaid balance — unless you pay right now.

How the utility shut-off scam works

They call during dinner, summer heat, or winter cold, when the threat feels worst. Payment is demanded by prepaid card, gift card, Zelle, or crypto — methods no real utility uses. Real utilities send multiple mailed notices before any disconnection and accept payment through your normal account.

Red flags to watch for

• A shut-off deadline measured in minutes or hours
• Payment demanded by gift card, prepaid card, Zelle, or crypto
• The caller refuses to let you hang up and call back
• No mailed past-due notices before the “final warning”

What it looks like

“This is Edison Billing. Your service is scheduled for disconnection in 45 minutes. Press 1 to make a payment now.”

What to do

1. Hang up and call the number printed on your actual utility bill.
2. Check your balance in your online account — not with the caller.
3. Never pay a utility with gift cards or prepaid cards.
4. Report it to the FTC at 1-877-382-4357 and your utility's fraud line.

Other common scams