Robert Daniels of the Village of Largo was suspicious when he received an e-bill for his utilities.

He was concerned it was a scam and checked with his neighbor. The neighbor had received a similar email notice.

“The letter opens with ‘Greetings!’ and that a new invoice is now available. We have never received anything like this before. They then ask you to click on ‘View Invoice’ or ‘Pay Now’ and no other explanation or information. This has the look and all the earmarks of a scam. We did not click on anything,” Daniels said.

His neighbor called the District Office in The Villages and was assured the e-bill was legitimate.

Many other Villagers were similarly confused by the sudden change in e-billing, prompting District Manager Kenny Blocker to issue the following explanation to officials in The Villages who may be receiving inquiries:

I would like to make you aware of a recent uptick in resident inquiries related to utility billing notifications. Several residents have contacted our offices with concerns that the e-bill communications they received may be fraudulent or part of a scam.

After reviewing these concerns, I want to assure you that there have been no changes to the format or content of our e-bills. These communications remain consistent with our standard practices.

The increase in notifications is tied to a recent system update by our payment processor, InvoiceCloud. As a result, residents with a valid email address on file are now receiving courtesy e-bill notifications. These are not new or unexpected charges, but rather an added convenience that enhances communication and visibility into their accounts.

Residents who are currently enrolled in paper billing will continue to receive their physical bills as usual. The courtesy e-bill does not replace their existing preference; it simply serves as an additional notification.

We recognize that unexpected billing communications can raise concerns. Our staff has been actively working with residents to provide clarification and reassurance, and we have confirmed that these notifications are legitimate.

Should you receive inquiries from residents, please feel free to direct them to our office so we may assist and provide further clarification.

Thank you for your continued leadership and support.

Respectfully,

Kenneth C. Blocker
District Manager

Daniels said the District bungled the rollout of this change, at a time when Villagers are constantly on the lookout for scams.

“This is a total disaster and the people responsible should be held accountable. No advance notice, no explanation, nothing. Whoever they hired should be fired. I recommend that everyone call the District and express your displeasure,” Daniels said.