Dominion Virginia Power is warning residential and business customers of a reported scam that has resulted in a local business losing $2,400.

“We heard today that a local business lost $2,400 to a phone scammer pretending to be a Dominion representative,” said Janell M. Hancock, a senior communications specialist with Dominion.”It seemed like the typical scam — a demanding phone call threatening disconnection if immediate payment isn’t received — but this one had a twist. Scammers are using caller ID technology to give the appearance that ‘Dominion Power’ is calling. Now scammers are asking for MoneyGram wire transfers, which are available at Kroger and Dollar General.”

She said that Dominion will never require payment over the phone or payment on a pre-paid debit card, wire transfer or cash.

“Dominion does not direct customers to make payment at any of their offices or to personnel; designated payment centers can be found online,” Hancock said.

She said that if a customer is behind on a monthly bill, they should contact Dominion to set up a mutually agreeable payment plan. “Dominion provides a customer with notifications on their bill before power is disconnected and won’t call out of the blue.”

“If a customer is suspicious of a caller, they are encouraged to collect information from the scammer including the caller’s name, any phone numbers or other details before hanging up and reporting to local law enforcement.”

She said that customers should always call Dominion at 1-866-DOM-HELP to verify that the company is attempting to reach them before releasing any personal information.

For tips about how to avoid scams, visit www.dom.com/scams.