Norris Public Power District warns customers of phone scam

Norris Public Power District is warning customers of a phone scam spreading across the country in an attempt to defraud customers of electric utilities.

Norris Public Power District Customer Service Representatives have received notification from customers that they have received phone calls from an unknown source claiming to be from a utility company and then employing a variety of techniques to defraud customers.

Residents across Nebraska have reported some callers threaten customers with disconnecting electric service to their home or business if they don’t make a payment immediately. The scam artist instructs them to send money via prepaid card or online payment service, such as PayPal or GreenDot, before their power is shut off.

Additional reports across Nebraska indicate that customers are being asked for credit card numbers. Norris Public Power District, as a business practice, does not contact customers and ask for a credit card number. Norris Public Power District customers who receive such a call should not attempt to make any payment and contact Norris at 1-800-858-4707 to report the request. If served electrically by another power district or municipality, customers should contact that organization before providing any type of payment.

Customers are also encouraged to contact local law enforcement about any suspicious calls demanding immediate payment of their electric bill.

Electric customers have been targeted in several states besides Nebraska, including Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, and New Mexico.