Consumers says 2,300 victimized by utility scam

FLINT (AP) -- More than 500 mid-Michigan residents are among 2,300 statewide who've been victimized by a nationwide scam that claims President Barack Obama will help pay utility bills in the midst of a scorching summer. Consumers Energy tells MLive.com that 515 victims reside in Flint, Burton, Grand Blanc and Mt. Morris. Officials say scammers contact victims in person, by phone, flier, social media or text message. Customers are asked to provide their social security number, credit card, banking or other personal account information in exchange for a bank routing number that will allegedly pay their utility bills. But there's no money, and customers wrongly believe they have paid their bills. Consumers Energy says it will work with customers affected by the scam. Customers contacted by scammers should contact local police. Published: Wed, Jul 25, 2012