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City Utilities to Customers: Beware of Payment Scams

City Utilities
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Twitter

Springfield City Utilities is warming customers of potential payment scams that have been used in an attempt to fraudulently obtain funds.

According to a news release, the scams typically start with a phone call made from a service with toll free 1-800 number or the caller I.D. number will not be displayed.

The utility cites recent incidents where customers have been contacted by phone notifying them of pending, if not immediate service disconnection. The caller identifies them self as a CU employee and states that service disconnection can be avoided if they immediately purchase a pre-paid fund transfer card.

In some instances, callers are claiming to represent City Utilities and are providing a case number that is to be referenced when sending a money order.

City Utilities says it does not conduct business in this manner and if a customer receives such a call, they are asked to disregard any directions and not provide the caller any account or personal information.

Customers are reminded of the following tips and safety steps to follow:

  • Call CU at (417) 863-9000 for information about your account status or to report suspicious activity.
  • CU does not make phone calls asking for payments to a specific location or in specific methods.
  • CU technicians do not request, or accept, any payments in the field
  • All CU staff members carry CU issued identification with field staff wearing uniforms

City Utilities provides several methods for bill payment. Information on these can be found in the Billing and Payments section of its website, www.cityutilities.net.