Greater Sudbury Utilities said it has received at least a dozen reports today from customers reporting fraud attempts.
Last week, businesses were the targets, said Wendy Watson, director of communications for Greater Sudbury Utilities.
The caller threatens immediate disconnection if money is not paid within a short timeframe, and the targets are told to either call a toll-free number to give payment information, usually a prepaid Visa or similar card, and in some cases have been told to bring cash and meet in a local area. The customers contacted GSU to find out if the calls were real; they were not.
"We urge all customers to be alert for fraudulent phone calls,” said Watson.
“Do not give your information out over the phone. Call the local number on your bill if you want to speak with someone about your account. Do not call a phone number, toll-free or otherwise, that someone gives you. Do not go and meet with anyone. If your account is overdue, we will communicate with you in writing, and you will have received notices that your account is overdue.”
GSU did close its office to public traffic today until further notice due to the COVID-19 situation, but staff are still working to deliver services.
While customers cannot attend at the office to pay their accounts, several payment options are still available including internet or telephone banking, through your financial institution, by mail, in the dropbox at 500 Regent St. Credit cards transactions can be processed through Paymentus.
Account details are available 24/7 via the “My Account” portal one both www.gsuinc.ca and www.sudburyhydro.com.
If you have questions about your account, call Greater Sudbury Utilities directly at 705675-7536. If you are the victim of a fraud or attempted fraud, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre 1-888-495-8501.
