How to avoid the fake Horizon Utilities billing scam

Horizon Utilities is warning customers that imposters claiming to be utility staff demanding immediate payments over the phone are still active months after the scam was first exposed.

The company is warning customers in Hamilton and St. Catharines.

Small business and residential customers are getting threatening phone calls asking for immediate payment via electronic wire transfer or credit card. If the customer doesn’t pay immediately, the caller says, electricity will be immediately disconnected.

The caller then asks customers to call a 1-800 number that connects them to an alleged hydro billing department. The answering service may indicate the caller has reached Horizon Utilities.

The company first learned of the scam on Sept. 5, and the calls are still happening, it says.

Horizon always gives customers their account details and offers multiple payment options. It also doesn’t accept electronic wire transfers or credit card payments over the phone.

It reminds customers to never provide personal information to strangers over the phone, including your Horizon Utilities account number.

If you believe you have been a victim of fraud or theft, call the police, Horizon says in a notice.

If you have questions or concerns, call the utility in Hamilton at 905-522-9200 or St. Catharines at 905-984-8961.