Scammers Pretending to be Utility Workers Targeting Michigan Residents

Heads up, Michigan. The Better Business Bureau is warning residents that bad actors posing as utility workers are out there, pedaling a new scam.

What Are the Details of the New Scam?

The Better Business Bureau of West Michigan is issuing a warning that scammers are preying on Michigan residents, posing as Spectrum Internet employees.

Officials say the scammers are leaving voicemails, offering customers deep discounts on Spectrum internet service, and asking for payment in advance.

Here's the catch, according to Up North Live:  Customers are asked to pay for the next several months in advance and told that payment can only be made with a gift card, because the promotion is part of a partnership.

Innocent Victims Taken by the Scam

The Better Business Bureau tells Up North Live that a Mt. Pleasant recently fell victim to the scam.

The woman received the voicemail message, called the number, and spoke with someone who claimed to be a Spectrum representative. She was then offered a 50% discount on three years of service with no contract if she paid 15 months in advance.

The representative also offered a $50 bill credit for paying in advance. When the woman didn't receive an email confirmation of her payment, she contacted law enforcement who then confirmed the whole thing was a scam.

Tips to Avoid This Type of Scam

• Spectrum is aware of the scam and advises customers that the company never seeks payment via gift cards.
• Never share personal or banking information with someone who calls, texts, or emails with unsolicited or suspicious offers.
• Make sure elderly or vulnerable adults are aware that scammers are targeting them, looking for payments with gift cards.