(BARBERTON, Ohio) — Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray and Barberton Mayor Bob Genet are warning city residents of a new scam targeting their region.

Some Barberton area residents have recently received flyers titled, “Five facts about Water Line Service Coverage.” The advertisement implies that homeowners need water line service coverage and requests payment of $59.88 by credit card, E-Z pay checking or money order. By design, the flyer appears to be endorsed by the state of Ohio and city of Barberton, but officials warn that it is not.

Attorney General Cordray stresses that this flyer is a scam and residents should not send in payment.

“In no way does the state of Ohio or the city of Barberton endorse this company or service,” said Cordray. “It is a scam. Residents who have given payments or information to this company should contact my office as soon as possible.”

“My office has received numerous calls and the residents of Barberton need to understand that this solicitation is a scam.  Please pass the word on to neighbors, family members and friends," said Barberton Mayor Bob Genet. "As always, if you have any questions, do not hesitate to call my office at (330) 848-6719 or the Service Director's Office at (330) 848-6717."

Cordray recommends that consumers always verify any company soliciting payment on a flyer.

“Scammers can come at us through every medium and they employ ruthlessly stealthy or misleading tactics,” said Cordray. “It is vital to stay vigilant and check out a company’s reputation before employing its services or providing personal information.”

Barberton residents who have fallen victim to this scam or any other phishing scam should report the incident to local police at 330-745-2181 and contact the Attorney General’s Office at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov or by calling (800) 282-0515.

Media Contacts:

Kim Kowalski:  (614) 728-9692
cell:  (614) 893-6018
Holly Hollingsworth: (614) 644-0508
cell: (614) 353-7576