Is a caller threatening to turn off your power if you don’t pay up? It might be a scam, sheriff says

Officials say there are more scammers out there looking for ways to take your money.

A Manatee County Sheriff’s Office official took to social media site Nextdoor to share a warning about the latest scam in the area.

This scam, the post said, involves a caller claiming to be with the power company and says your power will be turned off in a matter of minutes if payment isn’t received. The caller provides a toll-free number, and instructs you to call and give your credit card information.

However, it is scammers on the other end of the line, not the power company, the sheriff’s office warns.

Should you receive a call, look up the power company’s information online or on your latest billing statement and contact them directly about any possible payments.

Anyone with information on similar calls should contact the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at 941-747-3011.

This story was originally published July 12, 2017 at 3:31 PM with the headline "Is a caller threatening to turn off your power if you don’t pay up? It might be a scam, sheriff says."