BILLINGS- Two NorthWestern Energy customers in Billings were recently taken by a scam that’s been making the rounds through the area, utility officials said Monday.
The type of scam is not new but has spiked in the number of calls, particularly over the weekend, according to a release from NorthWestern,
The scammers typically tell customers their power bill is overdue, and service will be shut off if payment is not made quickly. They often tell customers to buy pre-paid debit cards or cash cards from a retailer and then call back the scammer with the relevant numbers to redeem the cards.
NorthWestern does not call customers about overdue bill and demand immediate payment. Instead, the utility will provide multiple past-due notices before cutting off service. If you get a cancellation notice, verify by dialing the NorthWestern customer service number on the bill.
Never supply personal information if you’re uncertain you’re talking to the utility. NorthWestern will never ask for payments through pre-paid debit cards.
If you think you’ve received a scam call, write down the number and report it to a NorthWestern representative.
Montana customers can call the utility at 888-467-2669.
