Georgia Power customers warn of phone scam

ATLANTA — Some Georgia Power customers are telling others to beware of scam artists trying to steal their money.

Channel 2 Action News spoke to business owners among other who reported a scheme to take hundreds from unsuspecting customers. Spencer Malay Hair Salon and Spa is the latest business to be targeted.

The receptionist took the initial call from a man who called himself "Kevin." An employee told Channel 2's Liz Artz the man said he needed nearly $500 within 30 minutes, or the power would be shut off for the weekend.

The man claimed the salon was behind a month on its power bill, owing Georgia Power $498.79. If the business didn't get the money to him in the form of a MoneyPak card, they would lose power throughout the weekend, the caller said.

But the owner thought the urgency was a bit suspicious and didn't fall for it.

The Spencer Malay Hair Salon and Spa isn't the only business to be targeted. Georgia Power is warning customers of the scam on its website and letting them know of its standard collection procedures.

Artz tried to reach Kevin, the man who called this business, but there was no answer. Artz's call was not returned.

Georgia Power says it's working with law enforcers throughout the state to identify and prosecute criminals who defraud customers.

WSBTV