Online and phone scams have escalated in recent years, says Plumas-Sierra Rural Electric Cooperative, leaving people vulnerable to identity theft and financial loss. Particularly concerning to PSREC are the devious tactics scam artists employ to target customers of utility services, threatening to shut off power unless immediate payment is made.
These scams often involve a phone call from someone posing as a utility representative. They may claim a customer’s power is about to be disconnected due to unpaid bills. The caller insists on immediate payment. Scammers create a sense of urgency or panic, demanding instant payment to avoid service disruption, typically through untraceable methods like prepaid cards or wire transfers. “It’s fear tactics like this that keep members from thinking clearly,” said PSREC.
Legitimate utilities such as PSREC do not require payments mentioned above, including prepaid debit cards, gift cards or cryptocurrency. Member service representatives at PSREC will never use intimidation tactics to pressure a customer into paying.
Senior members and scam vulnerability
Senior members of the cooperative’s community often become prime targets for utility scammers, who exploit their trust and routine lifestyles. To combat this, it is essential to strengthen awareness and safeguards for those in this vulnerable demographic, says PSREC.
The cooperative implores family members and caregivers to talk with parents and grandparents, reminding them to scrutinize unsolicited requests for personal or financial information and reinforce the correct procedures for handling billing inquiries.
Verify all communication
Anyone who receives a suspicious call or message purporting to be from PSREC should hang up and call 530-832-4261 for 24/7 access to a representative. In addition, downloading the PSREC app will give customers all their account information right at their fingertips for quick verification.
Scammers may ask for social security numbers, bank account details or utility account numbers. PSREC warns customers to never provide personal information in response to unsolicited requests and to pay bills only through authorized methods, such as through the utility’s official website, the app or by mail. Payments over the phone are only safe when a customer initiates the call using a verified phone number. PSREC suggests spreading awareness by discussing these scams with friends and family.
“We take the education of our members seriously regarding fraud attempts,” said PSREC. PSREC routinely reinforces the message that all official correspondence will come through verified channels and that there are multiple payment options available to ensure customer security.
“It is always a good reminder to not be rushed,” said the cooperative. “As we have mentioned, scammers typically are threatening immediate disconnect of your power and may become impatient or agitated the longer the call goes on. A scammer may discourage you from hanging up and calling the number on your utility bill.”
Reporting scam activities
People who believe they have received a scam call are encouraged to report the incident to the police and the cooperative. Reporting these fraudulent activities assists in preventing future scams and helps protect the community at large. Those reporting should provide the following information, if available:
- Date and time of contact: Record the specific time and date the scam attempt occurred.
- Caller ID information: Note any phone number or name that appeared on the caller ID.
- Nature of the request: Describe the request made by the scammer, particularly any mention of immediate payment or personal information.
- Payment methods mentioned: Document any payment methods the scammer directed you to use.
- Suspicious details: Relay any additional details that seemed out of the ordinary or raised suspicion.
By documenting these details, members aid in creating a thorough report that can be used in the investigation and prevention of future scam attempts. Members are encouraged to promptly contact their cooperative’s member service representatives using official communication channels.
Remember, no legitimate company will pressure a customer for immediate payment through suspicious means or threaten in any way. Always take a moment to verify any demands for payment, especially those related to power bills. “PSREC is a service partner, not a source of threat, and we are committed to keeping your identity and finances secure,” said the cooperative.
Information provided by Plumas-Sierra Rural Electric Cooperative