The NIPSCO scam has returned for collection of ‘past due payments’ and ‘new or defective meters,’ according to the Michigan City Police.

Authorities say customers will receive a phone call either late at night or on the weekend regarding immediate disconnection of electric service due to a faulty meter, need for a replacement meter, or past due payments.

The caller will then state only immediate payments will be accepted. However, the customer cannot pay with a debit or credit card. 

The scammer will ask for payment in the form of a ‘Green Dot MoneyPak’ card, which is a temporary pre-paid card.

Calls have been said to be at random.

According to authorities, NIPSCO will never ask customers to purchase pre-paid debit cards to settle payments.

Police say if you receive a call claiming to be your utility company, hang up and call NIPSCO customer service at 1-800-464-7726.