PUC warns of phone scam locally

PUC Services Inc. issued a release Sunday morning warning customers in the Sault Ste. Marie and Espanola areas of a phone scam that has recently come to light.

Customers reportedly receive a call from someone claiming to be with the PUC who demands payment for an outstanding balance on their electricity bill.

The caller threatens to have the customers power cut off if they don't make an immediate payment.

PUC advises that customers receive "multiple notifications" by way of their bill, over the phone and by mail are made before disconnection is considered.

The PUC also does not ask for payments over the phone in that case.

Customers with questions regarding their account can contact PUC's customer service line locally at (705) 759-6522.

Any customers who have received a fraudulant call can report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.