Scammers–they are out there

Here is info on one of the latest scam attempts perpetrated among Oconee County citizenry:  According to sheriff’s office, a deputy was contacted by a victim who received notification from Amazon, thanking him for buying an ICloud account.  The victim called a number and was told that a fraudulent account had been opened in his name.  The contact told the victim that to clear the account that he would need to purchase some gift cards to make a payment.  The victim bought gift cards and, on the phone, gave the numbers to the contact.  The victim told the deputy that he sent about $9 thousand.  No personal identifying information was provided by the victim and two cards that were used to buy the gift cards were cancelled.  Duke Energy is warning its customers about a scam that has begun to prey on them.  An urgent voice insists that electric service will be disconnected in 30 minutes, unless a payment is made immediately over the phone.  Duke says if you get such a call, hang up.  Duke never disconnects customers in this manner.  Instead, call Duke at the number on your bill or check your balance online or thru the Duke Energy app.  And that way you beat the scammer.