VIDEO: Scammers Call Claiming to be Light and Water Department

STARKVILLE, Miss. (WCBI) – Scammers are always looking for new targets and new ways to get your money.

This time, they call business threatening to turn off the lights.

A 800 number showed up on the caller ID of Nail Creations in Columbus, and the caller claimed he works for Columbus Light and Water.

However, no information was exchanged thanks to a perfectly timed appointment.

“Someone called me from the city light and water, and they told me my electric will shut down at 11 p.m.,” said Nail Creations employee, Tsao Hoang.

The caller wanted credit card information to pay a fee that would allegedly keep the lights on.

At the same time, Columbus Police Officer, Rhonda Sanders, happened to be getting her nails done.

“I felt like that was kind of strange during lunch. She showed me the 800-number; I felt like it would be fraudulent,” said Sanders.

“She helped me call this number and that it’s just a fake number. They just wanted to take my money,” said Hoang.

Sanders immediately called Columbus Light and Water Manager Todd Gale to confirm her suspicions.

“I called Todd, and he advised me that it was a fraud that was going on in the city,” said Sanders.

A return call to the 800 number made everyone involved glad no information was given.

“Who am I speaking with? and he said he was the manager of the city light and water department. I said ‘Well, is Todd there?’ and he said ‘Oh no ma’am. I think you have the wrong number.’ Evidently, they know people have used Todd’s name,” said Sanders.

“She helped me, and I’m so glad about that,” said Hoang.

Gale says these scam calls can claim to come from any utility, not just light and water.

The Public Service Commission is aware of the incident.

Gale says do not to give any personal or financial information over the phone.