Sault utility warns of text scam about upcoming power disruption
PUC Services Inc. in Sault Ste. Marie is alerting the public, especially those in the real estate industry, about a scam involving text messages falsely claiming to be from a PUC field technician. (File)
PUC Services Inc. in Sault Ste. Marie is alerting the public, especially those in the real estate industry, about a scam involving text messages falsely claiming to be from a PUC field technician.
'These messages typically warn of an upcoming service disconnection and may request a response or follow-up call,' PUC said in a news release Friday.
Poor grammar, odd area code
'PUC would like to clarify that we do not send text messages regarding service disconnections. Scammers would likely use deceptive tactics to trick recipients into responding.'
The messages often have poor spelling or unusual grammar, PUC said, display out-of-province area codes such as 718 and may reference incorrect or mismatched property addresses.
Anyone who receives such a message should not respond in any way. Instead, customers are asked to contact PUC to verify a message at 705-759-6500 or email customer.experience@ssmpuc.com.
'PUC urges everyone to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity,' the release said.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
CBC
14 minutes ago
- CBC
Police investigate explosion at B.C. MLA Bowinn Ma's office
The RCMP is investigating an explosion at B.C. MLA Bowinn Ma's constituency office in North Vancouver.
CBC
24 minutes ago
- CBC
Toronto police to be out in force this weekend at east end beach ahead of Canada Day
Toronto residents should expect to see an increased police presence at Ashbridges Bay Park and Woodbine Beach Park all weekend ahead of Canada Day, police said on Friday. Insp. Michael Hayles, spokesperson for the Toronto Police Service, said officers will be patrolling on horseback, on foot and all terrain vehicles for the official city fireworks display, which will be at the Ashbridges Bay Park starting at 10 p.m. Tuesday. City bylaw officers will also be there. "Please leave your fireworks at home and please remember that personal alcohol is not permitted at the beach," Hayles said. "If there is a threat to public safety, obstruction of our officers or other emergency services, officers will use their discretion in dispersing the crowd or laying charges." Simply possessing fireworks and bringing them to the beach can result in a fine, he added. Hayles said bonfires are also not allowed within Toronto parks without a permit. If residents obtain permits for a bonfire, there are only certain areas where they are permitted. Some road closures in and around Lakeshore Boulevard East will be in effect before and after the fireworks display. The city is planning fireworks displays at five other locations in Toronto: Centennial Park, Amesbury Park, Milliken Park, Stan Wadlow Park and Mel Lastman Square. There will be no fireworks display at Nathan Phillips Square. Fireworks allowed only on residents' own private property: city In a news release, the city said: "Residents are allowed to set off fireworks on their own private property without a permit before 11 p.m. on Canada Day and Victoria Day. A permit is needed to set off fireworks on all other days. "Fireworks are not permitted in City parks or on beaches, balconies, streets, parking lots or property that is not owned by the person setting off the fireworks." The misuse or illegal sale of fireworks can be reported to 311 by phone or by submitting a service request. Laura McQuillan, spokesperson for the city, said on Friday that the city is advising people to take public transit for the celebrations. "Be cognizant that there may be more traffic out there. Take transit if you can," McQuillan said. On its website, the TTC says it will provide extra service on Canada Day "to help customers travelling around the city to various events and fireworks displays."
CTV News
25 minutes ago
- CTV News
‘Inherent risks to all parts of the river': Officials urge caution while floating the Bow and Elbow
This weekend kicks off the busiest time of year for aquatic rescues in Calgary, and officials want anyone floating the Bow or Elbow to be extra cautious. As July approaches, the Calgary Fire Department water rescue team is expecting a busy month ahead. Officials want anyone floating the Bow or Elbow to be extra cautious—wear a life jacket and don't drink or smoke cannabis. 'It's not top of mind for a lot of people, so that's why every year we want to remind people about the dangers,' said Carol Henke, public information officer for the Calgary Fire Department. Aquatic safety experts say the Bow and Elbow rivers, even during summer heat, can see flow and temperature variations very quickly. 'There's inherent risks to all parts of the river,' said Alex Kwan, community safety officer for the Calgary Fire Department. Kwan says the busiest stretch of the Bow River begins at the Shouldice boat launch and goes through to Harvie Passage in Inglewood, especially where there are bridge crossings. 'What we see is people get into trouble by getting pushed by the current against any of the bridge pillars,' said Kwan. The risks on the water are high. Since 2016, there have been 29 fatalities. Last July, there were four deaths on the water—higher than the average. Wearing a life jacket is not only life-saving—it's the law. Failure to wear one could result in a $500 fine. This weekend kicks off the busiest time of year for aquatic rescues in Calgary, and officials want anyone floating the Bow or Elbow to be extra cautious. This weekend kicks off the busiest time of year for aquatic rescues in Calgary, and officials want anyone floating the Bow or Elbow to be extra cautious. Calgary police say booze and cannabis should only be consumed where it's safe and legal on dry land. 'We don't want to see any tragedies. We've seen enough in the past,' said Acting Insp. Kurt Jacobs. There will be an increased presence of police and peace officers along the shoreline, not just for enforcement, but also for education. 'We want you to have fun on the waterways, but we want you to be safe and we want you to get home at the end of the day,' said Acting Sgt. Mark Smith. Emergency officials recommend having a plan. The rules on the water are the same as on the road. Alcohol or cannabis consumption is not allowed. If you are impaired, you can be charged—just as you would as an impaired driver behind the wheel. Police officers say not everyone might be aware of this.
