Beaumont-based energy provider Entergy issued a warning and tips Aug. 1 after receiving reports of scammers targeting its customers.

The basic premise of the scam includes customers receiving a call from a spoofed number and the scammer telling the customer they have an hour to pay or they will have their services cut, according to a press release from Entergy. The scammer reportedly asks the customer to give a credit card number right then, buy a prepaid gift card or electronically transfer the funds.

"It is important to remember that Entergy never demands immediate payment from customers over the phone or shows up at your door demanding money on the spot," the press release states. "You shouldn't give your personal information to strangers."

If a call sounds suspicious, customers are encouraged to hang up and call 800-368-3749 to speak with an Entergy customer service representative.

Legitimate ways of paying an Entergy bill include online, by phone, walk-in payment centers, mail or bank draft payments.