Sarnia police and Bluewater Power are warning customers about a new elaborate version of a scam that threatens to disconnect their service.
Police say customers are being contacted by someone claiming to be with the utility asking for payment via Western Union or other wire transfer service.
Vice President Alex Palimaka says its detailed scam and the caller ID will even say Bluewater Power. He says commercial customers seem to be the primary target.
"The current scam targets restaurants for whatever reason, perhaps because restaurants are sensitive to having the electricity disconnected or perhaps because they have a list of restaurants from the internet," says Palimaka.
Palimaka says customers should also be advised that Bluewater Power doesn't ask or accept payment via Western Union and if you're asked to pay in that manner, it's likely a scam.
He says the utility also would send notices in the mail to customers who are at risk of disconnection.
Customers are advised to contact Bluewater Power by the phone number provided on your bill only, or in person at the Confederation St. office.
Police say one person has already been taken for $1,200.