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Scammers claiming to be from Wisconsin Dells utilities are calling local residents, trying to get money by telling the victims their power will be shut off if they don't pay up.

The Wisconsin Dells Police Department said on Thursday that several businesses and residents in the area are getting phone calls from unknown 800 numbers and other odd numbers.

"The caller will request you buy a gift card from Walmart or Walgreen's, for a specific amount," police said in a news release. "Then you are requested to give the card and PIN number to the caller."

The phone calls are not from the local utility company.

"Wisconsin Dells Public Works is aware of the ongoing scam, and is working with the police department to curb this issue," the release said.

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