Attorney General: Scam targeting utilities customers

Callers threaten to disconnect services unless they receive payment

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 15, 2016) — Attorney General Andy Beshear today issued a Scam Alert to warn Kentuckians of con artists pretending to be utility company employees. The scam has largely targeted small-business owners and senior citizens.

The scammers claim to represent the customer’s utility company, saying they are collecting payment for an overdue bill. Customers are threatened with having their service disconnected if they do no pay immediately.

“As temperatures increase outside, con artists are taking advantage of consumers who are dependent upon utility services to keep their homes cool and safe, or their businesses open,” Beshear said. “Do not fall for this scam and do not make a payment or give out personal information over the phone. Kentuckians should call the number they know is correct for their utility provider and verify any concerns with their bill.”

Beshear stresses these tips from LG&E and KU to help protect consumers and business-owners:

• Do not provide your personal information: Utility companies will never call and ask for credit or debit card numbers or other personal information.
• Contact your utility company: Customers who receive a suspicious solicitor at their home or a phone call, email or letter should contact their utility provider to verify.
• Ask about bill payment options: Ask your utility company to explain the variety of official and secure ways to pay your bill.
• Sign up for billing notifications: Check with your utility provider to determine what types of billing notifications are available.

If you are a victim of the utility company scam, report the illegal activity to your service provider and the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Office at 888-432-9257 or ag.ky.gov.