A caller says my power will be cut off today unless I pay now: is it a scam?

This is very likely a scam. A common trick is a caller, or someone at your door, who says your power will be cut off today unless you pay right away. They often ask you to pay with a gift card, prepaid card, payment app or cryptocurrency. The FTC consumer advice site explains this scam and how to spot it [1]. Real companies do not ask you to pay this way [1].

What to do: 1. Hang up, or close the door. Do not share card numbers or personal details. 2. Find the phone number on your own electric bill or account. Call your electric company yourself and ask if you really owe anything. 3. Never pay a caller or visitor with a gift card, prepaid card, payment app or crypto. 4. Report the call to the FTC. Its consumer advice site shows you how [1].

If you already paid, the FTC site also explains what steps to take next [1].

In Texas, the Public Utility Commission of Texas oversees protections for electric customers. This includes rules about how and when service can be disconnected [2]. Check its site to learn your rights as a customer in Dallas–Fort Worth and how to file a complaint [2]. The rules in Texas may be different from other states, so use the Texas site for details [2].

Sources [1] FTC consumer advice: https://consumer.ftc.gov/ [2] Public Utility Commission of Texas: https://www.puc.texas.gov/