Black Hills Energy is warning customers of a phone scam targeting customers and demanding payment.

The company said fraudulent callers have contacted customers claiming they must make a payment in a short amount of time before their services are disconnected. Black Hills warns that these scammers are using spoofing technology that displays the company on caller ID.

According to the news release scammers my be targeting small businesses and customers who may have trouble understanding English and billing practices.

Black Hills offers these tips for avoiding the scam:

• If someone calls claiming to represent your local utility and they demand immediate payment or personal information, hang up and call the customer service number found on your utility bill.
• Do not provide your Social Security number, credit card numbers or bank account information to anyone during an unsolicited phone call or visit.
• Never allow anyone representing a utility into your home unless you have scheduled an appointment. Any time a utility employee arrives at your door, require them to produce proper identification. Do not hesitate to confirm the visit with the utility company via a phone call before permitting access to your property.

The company urges customers with concerns to call their toll-free, 24-hour emergency line at 800-694-8989.