Consumer Alert: Beware of Utility Imposter Scams
Scammers are increasingly posing as utility companies and contacting consumers and businesses to demand immediate payment for supposedly overdue utility bills.
These scams often involve phone calls that appear to come from a legitimate utility provider. The caller may claim your account is past due and threaten to disconnect service unless payment is made immediately. Similar scams may also be conducted through text messages or email.
Common Scam Payment Requests
Scammers often ask for payment using methods that are difficult to trace or reverse, including:
- Gift cards
- Cryptocurrency
- Wire transfers
- Banking apps
- Barcode payments at retail stores
If someone insists on one of these payment methods and pressures you to act immediately, it's likely a scam.
How to Protect Yourself
- Do not provide payment or personal information to unsolicited callers.
- Be cautious of threats to disconnect service immediately.
- Remember that legitimate utility providers do not demand immediate payment over the phone.
- Verify any account concerns by logging into your utility account directly or contacting your provider using the phone number listed on your bill or the utility's official website.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Call, Email, or Text
If you receive a message claiming your utility bill is overdue:
- Hang up, delete the message, or do not respond.
- Independently verify your account status through your utility provider.
- Report suspected scams to the appropriate consumer protection authorities.
Additional Resources
For more information, consumer protection resources, or to file a complaint, visit ConsumerProtection.wi.gov.
Consumer Protection Hotline: (800) 422-7128
Email: DATCPHotline@wisconsin.gov