E.L.K. Energy warning customers of phone scam

E.L.K. Energy is warning customers about a phone scam.

The company says scammers are calling residents and businesses demanding payment immediately over the phone by credit card or e-transfer before threatening to disconnect power if payment isn't made.

"There's been, so far that we know, two victims. One business unfortunately sent over $1,000 and one individual household was scammed out of $500," said Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy, who also chairs E.L.K. Energy.

"So we want to let as many people know, to be really wary of people calling impersonating E.L.K. Energy staff, asking for money by credit card or e-transfer, and threatening to cut off your hydro bill. ELK staff are not doing this," said Bondy.

Bondy said the scammers are taking advantage of the fact that hydro companies can now cut off power as of May 1. They're not allowed to cut power over the winter.

E.L.K serves customers in Essex, Kingsville and parts of Lakeshore.

She said they first started hearing of the scams in the last couple of days.

"So we have the OPP involved and we're trying to get [the word] out as much through our social media," said Bondy, adding that she is also hearing that people who are not E.L.K. customers are getting scammed too.

In a media release, Essex County OPP warned customers of the scam and say the company "does not ask its customers to provide credit card payment via a phone call."

E.L.K. is encouraging customers to check with their financial institution if they believe they've fallen victim to the scam.

"E.L.K. urges everyone to reach out to vulnerable individuals including the elderly, and those without access to social media who may miss our warnings," said Jim Hogan, E.L.K.'s contract management lead in a news release. "We want to protect the community against fraud and financial losses."

The company is reminding everyone not to share personal information and if someone has encountered any suspicious activity, questionable calls or websites claiming to be E.L.K. to call the company at (519) 776-5291.