**Recognize and Avoid the ‘Credit Eating’ Scam in Light Utility Service Calls** This article provides valuable insight into a scam where calls from individuals claiming to be from light utility services prompt immediate visits and charge unnecessary cred

Alert: New Healthcare Booking scam Draining Mobile Credit

October 17, 2025

Perugia, Italy – A deceptive telephone scam is currently circulating, preying on citizens’ healthcare needs. The scheme involves Text messages inviting recipients to call premium-rate 899 numbers, falsely presented as the official Single Booking Center (Cup) for regional health systems.

The fraudulent messages promise “crucial communications,” but in reality, thay connect callers to exceptionally expensive services that rapidly deplete mobile phone credit. Reports have surfaced in Umbria, adn increasingly in regions like Trentino and Friuli venezia Giulia, revealing the widespread nature of this fraudulent activity.

How the scam Works

The scam typically manifests as a text message urging recipients to “contact our Cup offices urgently” at an 899 number. Individuals are notably susceptible if they have recently scheduled or anticipate upcoming medical appointments or diagnostic tests. Upon calling, victims are often placed on hold, while exorbitant charges accumulate.

Thes premium numbers can cost upwards of €1.80 per minute,quickly draining a user’s pre-paid credit or adding notable charges to monthly bills.The scam’s effectiveness lies in exploiting the urgency associated with healthcare-related communications, coupled with the common assumption that ‘Cup’ refers to a single, standardized service.

Did You Know? In 2023,reports to the federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding imposter scams,frequently enough involving phone calls or texts,exceeded 750,000,resulting in losses of over $1.7 billion,according to FTC data.

Regional Reports and Warnings

Authorities in umbria have explicitly stated that these messages are not originating from local or regional health services, and the cited phone numbers are not authorized contact points. Similar warnings have been issued in Trentino and Friuli Venezia Giulia,where users have reported unexpected and substantial charges after dialing the 899 numbers.

Pro Tip: Always verify the authenticity of any dialog requesting urgent action or personal information, particularly if it involves financial implications.

Region	Reported Issue
Umbria	SMS messages with 899 numbers claiming to be from Cup.
Trentino	High costs per minute when calling the reported 899 numbers.
Friuli Venezia Giulia	Similar SMS messages as Umbria, identified as phishing attempts.

Protecting Yourself from telephone Scams

To safeguard against this evolving threat, health officials strongly advise against calling any 899 or suspicious prefixed numbers received via text message claiming to be from Cup. If you require assistance with healthcare bookings, contact your local ASL Cup only through official channels, such as the official website or publicly listed phone numbers.

Under no circumstances should personal data, codes, or financial information be shared via text message or phone call unless you are certain of the caller’s identity and the legitimacy of the request. Any suspected instances of this scam should be reported to the Communications Regulatory Authority (Agcom) or consumer protection agencies.

Staying Vigilant Against Phone Scams

Telephone scams are a persistent threat, constantly evolving to exploit vulnerabilities.Beyond healthcare-related schemes, common tactics include imposter scams (pretending to be from government agencies or financial institutions), lottery/prize scams, and romance scams.

Staying informed about the latest scam trends, practicing skepticism toward unsolicited communications, and verifying information through official sources are crucial steps in protecting yourself and your finances.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cup Scam

• what is a “Cup” scam? A Cup scam involves fraudulent messages directing you to call a costly 899 number disguised as a healthcare booking service.
• How can I identify a scam text message? look for urgent requests, unusual phone numbers (especially 899 prefixes), and grammatical errors.
• What should I do if I accidentally call a scam number? Contact your mobile provider instantly to dispute the charges and report the incident.
• Is it safe to provide personal information over the phone? Never share sensitive data unless you initiated the call and are confident in the recipient’s identity.
• Where can I report a telephone scam? Report to your local communications Regulatory Authority (Agcom) or consumer protection associations.
• How can I reduce the risk of receiving scam texts? Register your number on “Do Not Call” lists and be cautious about sharing your number online.
• Are these scams becoming more common? Unfortunately, yes. Reporting to authorities and awareness are vital.

Have you received a suspicious text message recently? Share your experience in the comments below and help others stay safe!

What steps should you take if you receive an unsolicited call from someone claiming to be from your utility company?

Recognize and Avoid the ‘credit Eating’ Scam in Light Utility Service Calls

What is the ‘credit Eating’ Utility Scam?

The “credit eating” scam,a growing concern for homeowners and renters alike,involves unsolicited calls from individuals posing as representatives from your electricity,gas,or water company. These scammers aim to convince you of a supposed overcharge or a need for immediate service, ultimately leading to fraudulent charges and unnecessary “credits” applied to your account – credits that benefit them, not you. This isn’t simply about a small overpayment; it’s a complex fraud designed to drain your finances.common keywords associated wiht this scam include: utility scam, home service fraud, energy scam, water bill scam, gas bill scam, and electric bill scam.

How the Scam Works: A Step-by-step Breakdown

Scammers are becoming increasingly adept at mimicking legitimate utility company procedures. Here’s how the scam typically unfolds:

1. The Initial Contact: A phone call is initiated, often displaying a spoofed local number to appear legitimate. The caller identifies themselves as a representative from your utility provider (e.g., electric company, gas company, water department).
2. The False Claim: They claim there’s been an error in your billing – either an overcharge you’re due a refund for, or a potential service issue requiring immediate attention.They might mention a faulty metre, a power surge, or a leak.
3. Urgency and Pressure: Scammers create a sense of urgency, stating that immediate action is required to avoid service disruption or further financial loss. They discourage you from verifying the information independently.
4. The Home Visit: They insist on sending a technician to your home immediately to assess the situation. This is a key red flag. legitimate utility companies rarely dispatch technicians based on a single phone call.
5. The Fraudulent Charges: The “technician” arrives and identifies a non-existent problem. They then demand payment for a “repair” or apply a large “credit” to your account, which they pocket.This credit isn’t a refund; it’s a theft.
6. The Credit Illusion: They may even show you fabricated documentation or manipulate your online account to appear as though a legitimate credit has been applied.

Recognizing the Red Flags: spotting a Utility scam

Being aware of the warning signs is your best defense. Look out for these indicators:

* Unsolicited Calls: Legitimate utility companies rarely initiate contact via phone regarding billing issues or service problems unless you have contacted them first.

* Requests for Immediate Payment: Scammers pressure you to pay immediately, frequently enough demanding cash, prepaid debit cards, or wire transfers – payment methods that are arduous to trace.

* Threats of Service Disconnection: They threaten to disconnect your service if you don’t comply with their demands.

* Requests for Personal Information: They ask for sensitive information like your Social Security number,bank account details,or credit card numbers. Utility companies already have this information.

* Refusal to Provide Credentials: They are unable or unwilling to provide proper identification or a work order number.

* Unmarked Vehicles/Unidentified Personnel: The “technician” arrives in an unmarked vehicle or is unable to provide legitimate company identification.

* Claims of a “Credit” That Seems Too Good to be True: Be wary of large credits offered unexpectedly.

Protecting Yourself: Practical Steps to Avoid Becoming a Victim

Here’s how to safeguard yourself from this deceptive practice:

1. Verify the Caller: If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and contact your utility company directly using the number listed on your bill or their official website. Do not use the number provided by the caller.
2. Never Provide Personal Information: Do not share your Social Security number, bank account details, or credit card information over the phone.
3. Resist Pressure Tactics: Legitimate representatives will not pressure you into making immediate payments or providing sensitive information.
4. Schedule Appointments Yourself: If a service visit is necessary, schedule it directly with your utility company.

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