Article content
Manitoba Hydro customers who normally receive paper bills will soon get automated phone calls or text messages notifying them that a new bill has been issued, due to delays in postal service. The utility is reaching out to inform customers on how to check their balance without receiving their bill by mail.
Article content
For security reasons, Manitoba Hydro will not include account balances in the automated messages. The company also reminded customers that it will never threaten immediate power disconnections or demand payment over the phone.
“Manitoba Hydro does not accept credit card payments, Interac e-transfers, cryptocurrency, or phone payment. Never give out personal banking or credit card information,” the utility said in a release.
The disruption in postal service, caused by the ongoing Canada Post labour dispute, has created an opportunity for scammers to target customers. Fraudsters may impersonate Manitoba Hydro employees in calls, texts, or emails, often claiming that power will be disconnected to create a sense of urgency for immediate payment.
To avoid scams, Manitoba Hydro urged customers to contact their customer service centre directly at 1-888-MB-HYDRO (1-888-624-9376) or set up an online account at hydro.mb.ca/signup using their account number and postal code.
Customers can continue to pay their bills through their financial institution, either online or in person. In northern Manitoba, Northern Stores will also collect payments as usual.
Share this article in your social network