Columbia Utilities warns of payment scam

The city of Columbia warned businesses and residents of a payments scam Thursday night.

According to the city, several chiropractic businesses received phone calls from a person who said they were an employee of Columbia Water and Light.

The caller demanded payment for a late bill from the business. The city said the caller threatened the businesses faced immediate shut-off of utilities if the bill was not paid over the phone.

The city of Columbia Utility Customer Services will never demand a payment over the phone.

If you receive a call from someone demanding payment over the phone to avoid a shut-off of utilities should report the call to the Columbia Police Department by calling 311.