A new kind of scammer is reportedly working in the area, and these ones are using utility bills to bilk customers.

Word of this comes to us from SEMCO, the well-known gas company used by thousands of people in Superiorland and beyond.

According to SEMCO, scammers are using the internet to post false information about SEMCO’s 800 number and offering quick and easy bill payment set up.

In some cases, customers called the false 800 number and provided payment information enabling the scammers to deduct funds from customers’ bank accounts.

If readers get calls, and are concerned that it might be a scam, hang up and call SEMCO at 800-624-2019 to verify.

How can customers protect themselves:

≤ Only pay your bill through one of the approved methods on www.semcoenergy.com.

≤ To contact SEMCO, call the number on your bill (810-624-2019). Don’t use an online search.

≤ Hang up on suspicious callers demanding payment or personal information and threatening immediate disconnection.

≤ Delete suspicious text or email asking for payment.

≤ Shut the door and call the police if a visitor without SEMCO identification tries to collect payment or aggressively sell you any products or services.

≤ Don’t trust Caller ID. Scammers can manipulate the name to appear to be SEMCO. Call the number on your bill.

If you believe you have been targeted, take action: Contact SEMCO customer service, using the phone number on your bill and local law enforcement if you think you have been a victim of a scam or identity theft.