NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nashville Electric Service (NES) is warning that utility scam artists have been targeting customers. Customers are told their power is going to be disconnected if they don’t pay up.
According to NES, these scammers have the ability to “spoof” or alter the name that shows on the caller ID so that customers see the utility’s name and phone number instead. The scammer then claims the customer’s account is past due and a payment is required immediately. Some scammers have even gone door-to-door to threaten disconnection.
NES offers these tips to help customers protect themselves.
• If someone calls threatening to cut off your power if you don’t pay, hang up. This is a scam.
• Never give personal or financial information to an unsolicited caller.
• If someone in a utility uniform shows up at your door for unscheduled service, check for proper identification and call NES to verify their information.
• If you have doubts about a phone call, email, text or on-site visit, give NES a call first before taking any action.
• If you think you are a victim of a scam, contact the local police.
All NES field employees wear uniforms and carry photo ID badges. All company vehicles are marked with an NES logo and/or vehicle number. Also, NES never calls or goes door-to-door to solicit payments.
About NES
Nashville Electric Service (NES) is one of the 12 largest public electric utilities in the nation, distributing energy to more than 370,000 customers in Middle Tennessee. For more information, visit nespower.com.
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