Columbia Police warn of scam targeting Water & Light customers

Columbia Police are warning residents about another scam targeting City of Columbia utility customers.

The Police Department received several calls over the weekend, and at least one claimed to be an employee of Columbia Water and Light.

Customers are being told their accounts are delinquent and are asked to obtain a VISA card from a local pharmacy.

Multiple call back numbers are being used, including an actual Columbia Water and Light number.

Police remind residents City of Columbia bills are due 20 days after the date listed on the utility bill. Customers are notified via mail if their account is delinquent, and an automated phone call is placed two days before utilities are shut off.

City of Columbia staff are not allowed to take payments over the phone.

Customers can use the automated phone service to pay their bills or pay through the website. If customers have a question about a bill, the billing office can be reached at (573)874-7380 or by email ucs@gocolumbiamo.com.