Protect yourself
Money Scams to Watch For: Fake Bill Collectors, Utility Shutoff and Senior Scams
By the ForLowerBills team
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Scammers often pretend to be a bill collector, your utility or a government office. Knowing the warning signs makes it much easier to hang up with confidence.
Warning signs
- Pressure to pay right now
- Demands for gift cards, wire transfers or crypto
- Threats of immediate shutoff or arrest
- Callers who won't put it in writing
What to do
Hang up and call the company using the number on your bill, not a number the caller gives you.
Where to report it
Frequently asked questions
My 'utility' called saying my power will be shut off today. What should I do?
Hang up and call your utility using the number on your bill. Threats of immediate shutoff are a common warning sign.
Would a real company ask for gift cards?
Demands for gift cards, wire transfers or crypto are warning signs of a scam.
Related guides
— the ForLowerBills team
General information only, not legal, medical, tax or financial advice.
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