Cayce, SC -SCE&G, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dominion Energy, is joining utilities nationwide during National Consumer Protection Week to remind customers about utility scams. Scammed South Carolina residents reported an average loss of $342 last year, according to the latest Federal Trade Commission data.
“It’s important to remember that SCE&G will not call to threaten immediate disconnection,” said SCE&G vice president of Customer Service Sam Dozier. “Scamming can be very lucrative. Utility impostors know energy is an essential service, and they play on that fear.”
Customers should remember the following tips to protect themselves from scams:
Scammers do not know billing cycles. If you know you’ve paid your balance on time, hang up immediately. Similarly, if you don’t remember your balance due date or have an overdue balance, do not provide any identifying information over the phone, and call SCE&G customer service at 800-251-7234. SCE&G representatives are always ready to help customers with payment concerns.
Some utility impostors may falsify their caller ID to make it appear as if they are calling from a local number or SCE&G’s customer service number. When in doubt, hang up and call SCE&G.
Scammers typically demand immediate payment and threaten service disconnection. SCE&G will not ask for banking or credit card information over the phone or ask customers to pay using a prepaid or gift card. SCE&G will notify you through multiple methods before disconnecting gas or electric service for non-payment. We also call the day before the scheduled disconnection.
In-person scams, while far less common, may also occur. Utility personnel will never ask for bill payment in-person.
To receive scam alerts through the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs, visit consumer.sc.gov/stay-informed and sign up. Customers can report scams by calling 844-835-5322 or visiting consumer.sc.gov.
