Bill payment scheme targets utility customers
KISSIMMEE, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - Kissimmee Utility Authority is warning its customers to beware of the latest episode of bill payment schemes.
Since Monday, the utility has received numerous reports from customers who have been contacted by phone by individuals claiming to be from "KUA Collections" and advising of a past due balance on their utility bill. The scam appears to target both residential and small business customers in the Kissimmee area.
Even though these customers are not behind on their payments, the scammers warn that service will be shut off immediately unless the customer agrees to make an immediate payment by sending funds through a MoneyGram transaction at a local retail store.
Threats of immediate disconnection are generally a sign that customers have been contacted by a scam artist. Additionally, these scammers use "spoofing" software that lets them falsely display the name and phone number of the utility on the customer's caller ID.
KUA provides a mailed past-due notice and an automated reminder call before terminating service, but never demands direct payment over the telephone. If customers wish, they can arrange for a payment by check, credit card or debit card if they speak directly to a customer service representative or pay online at http://ebill.kua.com