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PGE and Pacific Power raise awareness about scams targeting utility customers
PORTLAND, Ore. Nov. 13, 2018 — Portland General Electric and Pacific Power are participating in Utilities United Against Scams Awareness Day on Wednesday, Nov. 14. During this national campaign, local utilities are working together to spread awareness on how to avoid becoming a victim of scams targeting utility customers.
Thieves impersonating electric company employees typically target customers via phone calls, texts, social media messages, emails and by knocking on doors. A common tactic used by impostors is to threaten to disconnect service immediately if payment is not made, usually with a prepaid credit card. Prepaid cards are not traceable and give the scammer instant access to the victim’s money.
Scammers are getting smarter every day, finding convincing ways to target those who are most vulnerable in local communities. They often prey on senior citizens, low-income families, non-English speakers and small business owners. With the right information, customers can learn to detect fraudulent activity.
PGE and Pacific Power encourage customers to be aware of these tips to protect themselves against scams:
For more information on tactics used by scammers and how customers can protect themselves, visit PortlandGeneral.com/Scam and PacificPower.net/Scam.
For additional tips from Utilities United Against Scams and details about the week-long national advocacy campaign, visit UtilitiesUnited.org or join the conversation by using #StopScams.