Phone scams in Columbia targeting local businesses

Phone scams are making their way around Columbia. This time, they are targeting local businesses.

Scammers are claiming to be with Columbia Water & Light calling from a 1-888 number.

The callers are telling the victim that their utility bills are past due and to ensure their electricity isn’t shut off, they need to go to Walmart and get an American Express voucher for $500.

The scammer is also telling people that they will accept payment over the phone with a credit or debit card.

The Columbia Police Department is advising residents to not fall for this scam.

Columbia Water & Light does not solicit payments over the phone for utility bills.

Columbia Police wants to remind residents to never give out personal information such as credit card numbers, expiration dates, bank account numbers, dates of birth, or social security numbers.

Another reminder is if you call the number black that called you, that you should verify the information and a recording picks up not stating the name of the company, it is a scam.

If you have information about a fraud or scam, report it to your local law enforcement agency.