Milton residents are being urged to stay alert as Milton Hydro warns of a fresh wave of utility scams targeting local customers. The utility issued a public alert on July 22, 2026, reminding people to watch for fraudulent calls and messages from scammers posing as company representatives.
The warning comes as the Ontario Energy Board reports a 77 percent increase in reported energy sector scams from 2020 to 2022. Scammers are cloning Milton Hydro’s official 1-800 phone number to appear legitimate, then demanding immediate payment through unusual methods, including directing victims to drop off cash at local Petro-Canada gas stations.
“With reports of scams targeting utility customers cropping up again, we’re sharing these important tips to help you recognize the signs of a potential scam,” Milton Hydro stated on X. The utility stressed it will never ask customers to make payments at a gas station or demand same-day payment under threat of disconnection.
Consumer watchdogs say utility impersonation scams tend to surge during extreme weather, particularly heat waves, when the psychological pressure of losing air conditioning makes victims more likely to pay. Scammers often demand payment via gift cards, e-transfers, or bitcoin, tactics no real utility would use.
Milton Hydro is directing anyone who receives a suspicious call, text, or visit to contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. The utility also reminded residents that Ontario’s Winter Disconnection Ban prevents electricity shut-offs for non-payment between November 15 and April 30, offering protection during the coldest months.
This isn’t the first time Milton Hydro has sounded the alarm. The company has previously warned customers about door-to-door insulation and renovation scams in October 2024 and a similar phone number cloning scheme in December 2024. As scammers get more sophisticated, Milton Hydro says the best defence is to pause, verify any payment request directly through official channels, and never feel pressured to act immediately.
