Peoples Natural Gas recently offered tips on how to avoid and rebut scams.

The company reminded customers that a representative will not ask for personal or financial information. All official incoming calls will come from a 1-800 number and will not ask you to pay using a gift card or prepaid card. The release noted that the company will not threaten immediate termination.

“When a Peoples customer is facing disconnection for nonpayment, we provide multiple termination notices and ... work with customers to set up payment arrangements,” the release said. “Verify the call is legitimate by hanging up and calling back to the utility yourself.”

In person, Peoples Gas workers are required to carry photo ID, almost always drive company vehicles and never go door-to-door to see bills.

If a customer receives a suspicious phone call or home visit, the company recommends reaching out to their customer service center at 1-800-764-0111. The company also encourages contacting law enforcement.