The Troy Police Department reports receiving complaints from citizens that DP&L called requesting them to pay outstanding power bills and threatening to cut off service.

One business stated that the caller demanded that the purported outstanding balance be paid within the hour or service would be disconnected. The employee told the caller that the owner was out of town and payment could not be made that quickly. She reported that she was given another number to call. She did so and a foreign-sounding male answered. She stated that she had a receipt that showed that the bill had been paid. The man ended the conversation.

DP&L reports that scammers have been active in the area recently. In all cases, the scammers often target the elderly and small businesses that are fearful that their electricity may be turned off if they don't comply immediately.

Often the scammers know a little bit about you and try to get you to provide more information so they can gain access to your bank accounts or use your credit card numbers.

DP&L offers these tips:

Never give anyone personal information such as your Social Security number (including the numbers on the back of your Social Security card), bank account number or credit card number unless you initiated the conversation and you are confident the transaction is legitimate.

DP&L does not require or strongly recommend a specific payment method or type. We offer a variety of payment options so customers can select the option that best meets their needs.

If you receive a call from someone claiming to be with your utility company asking for payment, hang up and call the utility’s customer service number. DP&L customers can email us or call 800-433-8500.

DP&L will only come to your door to collect payment if your account is past due and you have been sent notice that your account is scheduled for disconnection. DP&L employees carry photo identification which customers should request to see. For your protection, please verify that anyone who approaches you to collect money for your DP&L bill is either a DP&L employee or an approved contractor.

If you have already provided information to someone making this offer, contact your bank and the three national credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion, immediately.

If someone pressures you to provide personal or financial information, hang up immediately. Notify your local police department.

Check on elderly relatives and friends, often targets of such schemes, to make sure they have not fallen victim to this fraud.