Texts & Phone Calls
Utility shut-off threat
A caller or text claims your electric, gas, or water service will be shut off within the hour unless you pay immediately — often by prepaid card, gift card, or a payment app. Real utility companies send several written notices before any shutoff, and they never demand gift cards. The urgency is the trick: they want you to pay before you can check.
What it looks like
Example scam message“FINAL NOTICE: Your electric service is scheduled for disconnection today due to an unpaid balance. Call [phone number] immediately to make a payment and avoid shutoff.”
Details like names, amounts, and links change — the pattern stays the same.
Red flags to watch for
- A threat to cut your power, gas, or water 'today' or 'within the hour.'
- Demand for payment by gift card, prepaid card, wire transfer, or payment app.
- The caller will not let you hang up and call the utility back.
- Caller ID that shows your utility's name — caller ID can be faked.
What to do
- Hang up. Do not pay anything on the spot.
- Call your utility company using the number printed on your bill or on their official website.
- Never pay a utility bill with gift cards, prepaid cards, or wire transfers.
- If a text, forward it to 7726 (SPAM) and delete it.
Where to report it
- ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- IC3.gov
- Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM)
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ShieldGuard provides informational guidance to help you spot likely scams. It is not legal or financial advice and not a guarantee — no tool catches every scam. When money is involved, slow down and talk to someone you trust before acting.