Fraudulent Commercial Shut-Off Calls
Milton Hydro wants customers to be aware of three separate scams that are currently operating in the GTA. They involve text messages, emails and threatening phone calls.
Scam artists are targeting hydro customers by using fake bills and notices. The most recent scam uses fake bills — along with a personalized letter — that are emailed to customers. The scammers demand payment of $400 for a Smart Meter Deposit, which is not a legitimate charge, or power will be disconnected. Customers have also been contacted by phone. To help guard against becoming a victim of this fraud, customers should know their account number, and if they're suspicious of a bill, refer to a past invoice for comparison.
Some of our business and residential customers are also receiving emails and/or text messages that appear to be from a utility, asking them to accept an electronic transfer (credit or refund) by clicking on a link. Milton Hydro never sends these types of emails/text messages. We advise customers not to click on any links, as fraudsters are attempting to access personal information.
We also want to remind customers of an ongoing phone scam that's been operating for several years. Customers have received calls from phone numbers that look legitimate, with fraudsters claiming to be from Milton Hydro Collections. These fraudsters demand payment, usually in the form of a pre-paid card. Milton Hydro does not request pre-paid credit card payments to avoid shut-off and never threaten to disconnect power immediately.
To protect themselves, our customers should follow these tips:
- Don't provide any personal or account information if contacted by phone, email or text
- Don't make any type of payment until you can confirm you're dealing with Milton Hydro
- Contact our Customer Service department at 905-876-4611 if you suspect any type of fraud