Alectra warns about hydro scams targeting Mississauga and Brampton residents

Published May 22, 2022 at 12:06 pm

alectracover

Residents in Mississauga and Brampton should watch out for hydro scam calls, texts, and letters over the long weekend.

Alectra, the major hydro company that services Mississauga, Brampton and various other Ontario cities, says there’s been an increasing number of scams targeting electricity customers. These scams tend to pop up even more often during long weekends.

“The most common scams involve a telephone call from someone claiming to be from Alectra Utilities (or the electrical utility in the targeted area) who says that your account is overdue and, if payment is not made immediately, electricity will be disconnected in the next half-hour,” says Alectra.

These scams tend to target residents or small businesses, with the amount that is “overdue” usually being around $1,000 to $1,500 .

The hydro company says it will never demand immediate payment, and will never ask for payment via Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies.

Residents who receive a suspicious call, text, or letter are advised to always verify their account information with Alectra Utilities’ Customer Care Representatives directly, using the phone number on their hydro bill. Never make a payment for a charge that isn’t listed on your most recent Alectra Utilities bill.

It’s also advised not to provide any personal information (including your Alectra Utilities bill or account number) and not to click on links provided in text messages.

insauga's Editorial Standards and Policies advertising