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Ameren Warns of Utility Scam
Another potential form of identity theft is making its way around the state, and could be coming to this area. This time, it has to do with your power bill.

Ameren Illinois says what they call con artists are going door-to-door or making phone calls demanding payments on allegedly outstanding bills, and threatening disconnection.

Spokesman Leigh Morris tells WGIL they'll often ask for account numbers or banking information, and that's just not how they do business anyway.

"We never would ask for payment over the telephone," Morris said. "If someone did need to make a payment, we would tell them that they can pay by mail. They can do it electronically through our website. They can also go to an authorized payment center. Those are your options."

Morris says what's more, Ameren wouldn't call you asking for payment. They'd send you a disconnection notice in the mail if you have an outstanding bill.

Morris some customers have given their information, while many more have reported they didn't, and called Ameren and their local police right away. He says anyone coming to your door representing Ameren, had better have proper Ameren identification on them when they do.
11 25 10 by Newsroom
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