CPD warns of scammers posing as city employees

The Columbia Police Department is warning some residents of a phone scam.

Police say scammers are posing as employees with the City of Columbia and are informing people they are behind in utility payments.

The caller reportedly tells potential victims their utilities will be shut off in two hours if they do not pay. They then ask the customer to make a payment by credit card over the phone.

Police say the City of Columbia Utility Billing Office may make calls for billing reminders, but will not ask for any type of payment to be made during the call. They also say these calls will not be made after 5 p.m.