Columbia Gas warns utility customers of “Energy Credit” scam

Columbia Gas of Virginia has issued a warning to its customers and the general public about a nationwide scam designed to elicit personal information and account numbers through a bogus offer of an “ Energy Credit offered by the Obama administration.

Via personal calls, computer generated calls, emails and texts, social media and even door-to-door visits, scammers are contacting gas and electric utility customers and offering an “energy credit” to be applied to their utility bills and furnishing false bank routing and account numbers for customers to make a utility payment by computer or phone. Customers have to register for the bogus “credit” by furnishing personal information including social security numbers and other details.

There is no such “energy credit” available. Customers are advised to be wary of anyone claiming to represent a utility company asking
for personal information and account numbers, said Robert Innes, director of communications for Columbia Gas of Virginia.  Thee are two dangers, he said. Divulging personal information including social security numbers could lead to identity theft and a host of problems as the scammers open fraudulent bank or credit card accounts using the information. In addition, customers’ utility bills could go unpaid leading to late charges and potential disruption of utility service.

Innes said Columbia Gas of Virginia has not received any reports of Virginia customers subjected to the scam. Customers who are called or contacted by social media about the “energy credit” are advised to not provide information requested. Customers should contact their local police department via the nonemergency number and report the attempted solicitation. Innes said Columbia Gas of Virginia customers can call 1-800-543-8911 with questions about their individual account.