New scams target Burlington hydro users

The bad guys are using new methods to try and trick Burlington residents into handing over their money.

A bulletin issued by Burlington Hydro indicates the latest scam comes by way of text messaging.

In it, the text falsely claims that it is being sent by Hydro One. The indicator that it is a trick is that Hydro One does not operate in Burlington. However, Burlington Hydro says the text message could cause confusion with customers.

“Do not respond to the text that alludes to a remittance,” Burlington Hydro says. “Delete the text immediately.”

Another scam surfaced late last year but continues to circulate in Burlington.

This one involves phone calls to customers advising them that power and water supplies will be cut off unless payment is received by credit card over the phone.

“Be aware that legitimate Burlington Hydro representatives never ask customers for banking or credit card information over the phone,” Burlington Hydro advises. “If you receive this call simply hang up.”

If you are the target of any of these scams you can contact customer service at Burlington Hyrdro to report the incident at 905-332-1851. Burlington Hydro also suggests you contact the Ontario Provincial Police Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.

If Burlington Hydro does contact you by phone the number that will be displayed is 1-866-932-6616.