Ameren Illinois is warning about scam artists targeting small businesses and demanding immediate payment.
Utility spokesperson Brian Bretsch says someone calls a local business posing as an Ameren employee claiming their electric bill is past due.
The caller demands an immediate payment of $700 or the power will be shut off within a couple of hours.
Bretsch says Ameren will not reach out to customers in this manner and always leaves disconnection as a last resort.
He says it's important to accurately record the phone number for Ameren's Customer Service Representatives and law enforcement.
He says victims of the scam should call Ameren Illinois (800) 755-5000 and local police to alert the public as soon as possible.