Electric companies are warning customers statewide about an apparent telephone scam.
Electric companies are warning customers statewide about an apparent telephone scam.
Customers of Hawaiian Electric Company, Maui Electric Company and Hawaii Electric Light Company have reported receiving telephone calls saying their electric bill is delinquent and subject to disconnection. These customers were then told to make payments at certain retail stores using specific debit card services and provide the caller with a confirmation number, which grants the scam artist access to the customer’s funds.
Customers wanting to pay their electric bills in person may do so at the utilities’ customer service offices. Official walk-in payments may also be made at First Hawaiian Bank, Foodland, Kmart, Sack-N-Save, Safeway, Molokai Community FCU, Times Supermarket and Walmart.
Customers should not provide personal, confidential or financial information to any unidentified individual and always be cautious when responding to phone calls. Also report any suspicious activity to local police.
For more information, call HELCO Customer Service at 329-3584 in Kona, 885-4605 in Waimea and 969-6999 in Hilo.