Utilities Kingston warns customers of apparent ‘carbon tax payment’ scam
After receiving reports from several customers about phone calls regarding a ‘monthly carbon tax,’ Utilities Kingston is warning customers of this apparent scam.
Customers have reported receiving calls off “low rates on a fictitious monthly carbon tax,” Utilities Kingston said in a press release on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2018.
“This is an apparent scam.”
The customers reported that the scammers claim that customers can keep the supposed monthly carbon tax payments low by signing up with their company. The customer is then asked for banking information over the phone.’
“If you receive a suspicious call, do not provide any personal information, including Utilities Kingston account information and banking information,” Utilities Kingston said.
The callers may also claim to have customers’ Utilities Kingston account information. Utilities Kingston said they take all steps to protect the privacy of customer information.
Utilities Kingston would like to remind customers of the appropriate steps to take if they receive this or any other suspicious contact regarding their account:
– Report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. This agency collects information on fraud and works closely with police to solve these crimes.
– If you receive a suspicious phone call or visit at your door from someone claiming to be affiliated with Utilities Kingston, hang up and call Utilities Kingston. A customer service representative is available Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by calling 613-546-0000.
– If you become a victim of fraud through monetary loss, call Kingston Police at 613-549-4660.