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County Warns Consumers of Utility Disconnection Scams
9/4/2020
Media Contact: Miranda Kortan: (216)698-2546; mkortan@cuyahogacounty.us
CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH - The Cuyahoga County Department of Consumer Affairs warns residents to hang up on utility scam calls that threaten disconnection.
Utility disconnection scams, which target residents and businesses, often spike before weekends or holidays.
Consumer Affairs has also received reports of utility scammers offering consumers a “refund” or discount as a ploy to get account or payment information.
“The safest thing to do with these calls is ignore them and report them,” said Sheryl Harris, the County's Director of Consumer Affairs. “Answering or—worse, calling back—may result in more calls.”
Residents are cautioned:
- Utilities do not accept gift cards, money wires or Bitcoin payments.
- Never share Social Security numbers or banking information with anyone who calls you.
- If you have questions about your utility accounts, contact your utility using the number on the bill. Do not use callback numbers provided in robocalls.
About Cuyahoga County:
Cuyahoga County is focused on Economic growth and Opportunity, Fairness and Equity and a Government That Gets Results. We believe that we can create and support a vibrant and prosperous region where everyone thrives and all things are possible. For more information on Cuyahoga County please visit cuyahogacounty.us. Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CuyahogaCounty Twitter: https://twitter.com/CuyahogaCounty Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cuyahogacounty/ and sign up for our newsletter: https://cuyahogacounty.us/county-news/newsletter-registration
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The Department of Consumer Affairs’ mission is to make sure people who live or shop in Cuyahoga County get what they pay for.
Consumer Affairs
2079 East Ninth Street
Cleveland, Ohio 44115
216-443-7035 (phone)
216-443-5920 (fax)
