(KNZA)--Brown County Sheriff John Merchant is alerting the public of another scam circulating in the area.

Merchant said Thursday he's been notified by several businesses and residents that they are being contacted by phone by a  person who is representing
themselves as a WESTAR employee.  The caller ID even shows the call is from WESTAR.  

The caller is stating that their electric bill has not been paid and unless payment is received, electrical service will be disconnected within a short amount of time.  A number and extension is given.  So far, Merchant says all those reporting the scam have given the same call back number of 1-866-377-5292  extension #1 and they are being told to ask for Rachel Bankes.  

He is advising residents not to return the call under any circumstances. In addition, he advising residents not to trust what their caller ID says as any persons name or phone number can be programmed to show up on your caller ID.  

If you have been a victim of this scam, notify your local law enforcement at once.