The state's attorney general is urging Ohioans to watch out for scams involving utilities after two people reported losing about $800 each after unsolicited phone calls.
Attorney General Mike DeWine says the caller claimed to represent a utility company and demanded payment. He says dozens of other consumers have said they've received unsolicited calls about lowering their energy rates.
DeWine says fluctuating temperatures and high bills can make it difficult for people to determine whether a call is legitimate. He is reminding consumers to make sure to check with their utility companies before giving personal information over the phone.
The attorney general's office says it has received at least 80 complaints since July 1 from Ohioans who have heard from callers claiming they can lower the consumers' natural gas rates.