RCMP warning BC Hydro customers of new phishing scam

SURREY, B.C. — The BC RCMP is warning about a new scam using a fraudulent BC Hydro customer support number to steal personal information. 

The RCMP and BC Hydro say they have received over 100 reports throughout the province of paid advertisers urging BC Hydro customers to set up new electricity services or reconnect to the service through false websites. 

“The ads utilize BC Hydro’s name, but the URL is not correct,” said the RCMP. 

The reports are currently being investigated, and residents are encouraged to call the local police if they receive such calls. 

“When BC Hydro customers call the fake number, the scammers ask the caller a similar set of scripted questions which BC Hydro uses in its own contact centre to verify customer identity,” said the RCMP. 

BC Hydro is advising customers that it does not collect credit card or bank account information over the phone, by email, or by text.

The company also says it will mail several notices and use an autodialer to remind customers to make a payment.

Fraudulent websites can be reported to the Canadian Anti-fraud Centre, and online safety tips are available on the BC RCMP website.