Saturday, March 16, 2013

CAYCE, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina Electric & Gas is warning customers of scam artists posing as company employees.

The utility says it's received several reports of people portraying themselves as SCE&G employees over the phone. In several instances, the individuals ask customers to buy a payment card from a local convenience or drug store, then call back with the card's information for immediate bill payment.

SCE&G says when employees call concerning an unpaid bill, they identify themselves, and would not ask customers to purchase payment cards. Bill payments are accepted at SCE&G businesses offices, by mail, authorized payment agencies, online or by phone.

If customers are unsure of a caller or worker's identity, they can call customer service at 1-800-251-7234. SCE&G recommends calling 911 if a customer feels threatened when someone arrives unannounced.

(Copyright 2013, The Associated Press)