Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) is warning its customers about an increase in scam phone call attempts this week. Scammers are making the calls and pretending to be from WPS to trick customers into paying them money.
Residential and business customers in northeast Wisconsin have received the scam calls. The scammers are using familiar tactics, including threatening customers with disconnection if an immediate payment is not made. One customer fell victim to these scam calls, losing more than $1,000.
In some cases, scammers have demanded that customers go to local drug stores to make a payment using a prepaid debit card. WPS never requires customers to use a specific method to pay their energy bill. Customers who receive calls like these should hang up the phone immediately to avoid falling victim to a scam.
How to stop scam attempts
Use these tips to stay safe from utility scam attempts:
- Follow your instincts. If a call, email or text seems suspicious, hang up or delete it immediately. It’s not rude; it’s safe.
- Know the right ways to pay. WPS offers many payment options, but never requires customers to use prepaid debit cards. Customers who want to pay their bills in person should only do so at a WPS authorized payment location. A list of authorized payment locations can be found on the WPS website.
- Verify online search results. Always contact WPS using the number on a bill, WPS app or WPS website. Do not take phone numbers directly from search engine results, as these can be manipulated.
- Contact WPS with questions. Customers can verify the status of their account by contacting WPS at the number on their bill, WPS app or WPS website. WPS employees work with customers if they have fallen behind on bills by offering payment plans and financial assistance options.