Avoid Utility Scams
Protect Yourself from Utility Imposters
Utility scams can happen to anyone. Scammers may pretend to represent a natural gas, electric, or water company and use phone calls, emails, text messages, or even in-person visits to pressure customers into making payments or sharing personal information.
The good news? Knowing what to watch for can help you spot a scam before it happens.
When in Doubt, Hang Up!
If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts.
Hang up, then call YCNGA by dialing our main line directly at 803-323-5304 — do not call any other phone number provided by the caller.
We're always happy to help verify account information or answer questions about your service.
Utility Scam Safety Guide
How Utility Scams Happen
📞 Spoofed Phone Numbers
Scammers can make their phone number appear to be a local number — or even a utility's customer service number — using a technique called "spoofing."
Never rely only on caller ID to confirm who is contacting you.
If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and contact YCNGA using the phone number on your bill or our official website.
🚨 Threats of Immediate Shutoff
A common scam tactic is threatening to shut off your service immediately unless you make a payment.
Scammers may claim you:
Have an overdue balance.
Need to replace your meter.
Need to pay a fee to avoid disconnection.
A legitimate utility will not demand immediate payment through a threatening phone call.
🚪 Fake Utility Representatives
Some scammers may show up at your door pretending to be utility employees. They may wear clothing or carry identification designed to look official.
YCNGA employees and contractors will carry proper identification. If you are unsure who is at your door, ask to see their identification and contact YCNGA to verify their visit.
Warning Signs of a Utility Scam
Be cautious if someone:
💳 Requests an Unusual Payment Method
Scammers often demand payment through methods that are difficult to reverse, such as:
Gift cards
Prepaid debit cards
Cryptocurrency
Wire transfers
YCNGA will never require you to use these types of payments.
⏰ Uses Fear or Pressure Tactics
Scammers often create a sense of urgency by saying your service will be disconnected immediately unless you pay right away.
Don't let someone pressure you into making a payment before you have verified the request.
🔒 Asks for Personal Information
Be cautious if someone unexpectedly asks you to provide sensitive information, including:
Account numbers
Social Security numbers
Dates of birth
Banking information
Passwords
If you receive a suspicious request, end the conversation and contact YCNGA directly.