By Dave Branco

Fraud call

Small business has fallen victim to a scam.

Jan 18, 2021 | 2:29 PM

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PRINCE GEORGE – A long-time small business owner wants others to be aware that fraudsters are impersonating BC Hydro officials who then intimidate victims into paying for their electrical bills by depositing funds at a Bitcoin ATM machine.

Lesley Matthews is the owner-operator of Lesley’s Complete Pet Parlour located downtown.

Earlier in the month, she received a phone call from someone looking to collect on her power bill for her business.

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In what turned into a day-long ordeal, the fraudster said her bill was overdue and demanded payment.

According to Matthews, the ongoing pandemic has been bad for business. The fraudster stealing from her makes a tough time even worse.

“Looking back the fraudsters played with her emotions and now she realizes BC Hydro would not use these kinds of tactics to collect payment”

BC Hydro suggests if you fall victim to this type of scam, it’s best to contact the RCMP and BC Hydro.