Coast Electric warns customers of phone scam requesting bank info for fake refunds

Coast Electric is warning customers about a phone scam that could leave victims out of more than just a refund.

The utility says scammers may call claiming you’ve overpaid your energy bill and are owed money back. The caller may then ask for your bank account information or credit card number to process the refund.

Coast Electric says that is a red flag. If a customer overpays their bill, any credit is typically applied to the account or refunded by check.

Utility companies will not call and ask for banking information to issue a refund.

If you receive one of these calls, hang up immediately and never provide personal or financial information over the phone.