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Beware of utility scammers during storm season

Posted at 1:11 AM, May 21, 2019
and last updated 2019-05-21 01:11:02-04

INDIANAPOLIS — As we get into storm season, power line repair will be a common sight across Central Indiana.

But what you don't want is to be caught off-guard by a scammer when you're dealing with storm cleanup and power outages.

Both Duke Energy and Indianapolis Power and Light said there's been a big uptick in scammers pretending to be your utility.

When they call, the ID may even say "IPL" on your phone. They'll threaten to turn off your power within an hour if you don't pay them, and they'll often ask for that via pre-paid credit card.

Do not offer your information.

Instead, call they utility's number listed on their website and report the scammer number.