Maui Warned of Fake DWS Phone Calls

Maui phone scam. Image by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

The Maui Department of Water Supply is warning the public about a phone scam in which individuals claiming to be DWS representatives are falsely seeking payment of bills, officials announced today.

Under the scam, water officials say, customers are being falsely offered a discount on their water bill if they pay by credit card over the phone.

“The DWS utilizes an automated reminder system for late payments; however, employees do not call customers for payment,” water officials said in a department issued press release.

“In addition, the DWS is not yet able to accept credit card payment, and water rates are set annually in the county budget which does not provide for any discounts for water service,” the announcement said.

DWS officials note that the Service Center accepts checks only.

Currently, water bill payment is accepted at the following locations:

• Kalana O Maui, county building lobby, in Wailuku;
• County of Maui Service Center at the Maui Mall in Kahului; and
• DWS baseyards in Lahaina, Hāna, and Molokaʻi.

Customers who receive suspicious calls regarding water bill payment should contact Maui Police at 244-6400, and the DWS office at 270-7730.

***Supporting information courtesy County of Maui, Department of Water Supply.