Nearly all of us have been on the receiving end of an attempt to scam us out of our hard-earned money — particularly in the digital age. Utility scams are fairly common, and many of us probably think we know how to sniff them out.

Still, according to AEP Ohio, more than 2,000 scam attempts have been reported to that company alone so far this year. That’s 2,000 the company knows about. Who knows how many have gone unreported, or who might have fallen victim?

AEP was issuing its reminder on Utility Scam Awareness Day, earlier this week. But the safety advice is important to remember all the time.

In AEP’s case, it recommends making payments through BillMatrix, on its website or app, or at an authorized pay station.

If someone calls you, offering assistance, be wary. Instead, those in need of payment assistance should go through the utility company — AEPOhio.com/Assistance, for example.

If you are threatened with disconnection of a utility, check your account online, through a mobile app, or by calling the company’s official customer service line. Use the phone number that is likely printed on your bill.

Do NOT use a different phone number provided to you by a caller, even if the call appears to be from the utility. Go through the utility company’s official channels.

And, of course, if you believe you have been contacted by a scammer, report it. Call the utility company to verify the status of your account. For example, for AEP Ohio, call 800-672-2231 if you want to know whether the company has contacted you about your bill. For Appalachian Power customers in West Virginia, call 800-956-4237.

It sounds like a lot to remember, but scammers are counting on those who react quickly rather than taking those steps. Protect yourself.