INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ Duke Energy says there has been an increase in utility bill scams where customers' have been threatened with having their power cut off unless a quick payment is made. 

The energy provider says scammers purporting to be Duke Energy employees have called customers and demanded payment, usually within the hour.  Customers are then instructed to purchase a prepaid debit card and provide information that will allow the scammers access to the money. 

Duke Energy says it provides disconnect notices with monthly bill – not over the phone – and that's the same policy most other utilities use.

Customers who are contacted by suspicious callers are urged to hang up and contact the police.