Greater Sudbury Hydro warns of more fraudsters

Greater Sudbury Hydro has again received several reports from local businesses of attempted fraud, posing as a disconnection warning.

The phone calls were from someone claiming to represent Greater Sudbury Hydro, threatening disconnection if money was not paid over the phone via credit card. The business owners contacted Greater Sudbury Hydro to find out if the calls were real; they were not.

The businesses were also given a toll-free phone number to call with their payment information. Greater Sudbury Hydro has reported the misrepresentation and fraud attempts to police, and urges all individuals who are approached in similar fashion to call police as well.

This is a ruse similar to one that has circulated around Ontario in recent months, and before that, in the United States.

“In the case of an overdue account, we do not phone customers, instead, a written reminder is sent out, followed by a written disconnect notice and finally, a physical collection call, explaining that disconnection may occur within 48 hours, and outlining payment option details,” said Greater Sudbury Hydro spokesperson Wendy Watson, in a press release.

"We urge all customers to be alert for fraudulent phone calls. Do not give your information out over the phone.”

Greater Sudbury Hydro said customers can reach them directly by calling 705-675-7536. If you are the victim of a fraud or attempted fraud, you can contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre 1-888-495-8901 or Greater Sudbury Police at 705-675-9171.