Aware that utility customers in Michigan are receiving phone calls trying to get them to divulge credit card or other financial account information, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) is reminding utility customers to prevent identity theft by protecting their privacy.

Personal identification can be used to establish utility service without a customer's permission or knowledge.  It can also be used to open retail accounts and obtain credit cards.

The MPSC has issued a consumer alert with helpful tips entitled "Protect Your Privacy and Prevent Utility Service Fraud."  It offers ways to prevent utility service fraud, advice on what to do if victimized, and other suggested actions.

The consumer alert is available at Michigan.gov/mpscalerts, under Electric, Natural Gas and Telephone.

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth.