How can I verify if a call claiming to be from my local power company is legitimate?

✓ Accepted answer

You can verify a suspicious call by hanging up immediately and calling the customer service number printed on your utility bill or the official website, rather than using the number the caller provides.

• Hang up and call back: Scammers often spoof phone numbers to appear local. Disconnect any call demanding immediate payment or citing a shutoff threat, then dial the contact number listed on your paper bill to confirm if an outage or debt is real.
• Recognize payment red flags: Legitimate utilities in the US and UK will never request payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or crypto. If a caller pushes for these methods, it is a confirmed scam regardless of the urgency claimed.
• Check your account online: Log into your utility provider’s secure portal to view your account balance and service status. This neutral step removes the pressure of the phone conversation and reveals if the debt actually exists.
• Report the attempt: File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission in the US or Action Fraud in the UK to help law enforcement track these impersonation schemes. Reporting also alerts your utility provider to fraudulent calls targeting their customer base.
• Protect your details: Never share your account number, Social Security number, or banking information with an unverified caller. If you accidentally disclose this data, monitor your financial statements for suspicious activity and consider placing a fraud alert with credit bureaus.

admin · 2026-10-14 02:10:33