MLGW is warning customers about a new telephone payment scam involving caller ID spoofing and Green Dot cards. Thieves call demanding bill payment and spoof MLGW’s facility telephone numbers, so it appears the call originates from a MLGW Call Center. Some businesses reported their caller ID displayed the number for MLGW’s Brunswick Service Center, which is not responsible for payment processing. Crooks threaten to turn off utility service, telling small business owners and individuals to purchase a Green Dot card and to call 855-811-2107 to make an immediate payment. Calling that number, the recording sounds legitimate, but it’s a scam.

With advances in technology, scammers are becoming craftier. Customers are encouraged to stay vigilant. If something doesn’t sound right, it probably isn’t.

Here are a few tips to remember:

• MLGW representatives do not personally call customers requesting payment.
• MLGW does mail cut-off notices to customers and uses auto-dialers alerting them that a payment must be made by a certain date to avoid cut-off.
• MLGW representatives won’t tell you to purchase a prepaid or gift card to pay your bill.

When in doubt, check mlgw.com or call MLGW’s Customer Care Center at (901) 544-6549 to verify payment options or account status.

If you believe you have been targeted or victimized, immediately report it to the Memphis Police Department at (901) 545-2677.