WPS, law enforcement team up after spike in utility scams

Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) is teaming up with police and sheriff’s departments across northeast and north central Wisconsin to warn everyone of a sharp increase in utility scam attempts this week.

Scammers are aggressively contacting WPS customers throughout the area by phone, threatening them with disconnection unless an immediate payment is made, or asking for account or banking information.

Unfortunately, some customers have fallen victim to these criminals, losing more than $10,000 this week. Many of the calls have been made to businesses or religious organizations. Residential customers have reported receiving scam phone calls as well.

This time of year, con artists often prey on fear and try to get customers to act quickly without thinking twice. WPS says don’t become their next victim — slow down and know the warning signs.

Scammers may do things like pretend to be from WPS by spoofing caller ID to display “Wisconsin Public Service” or by using a recording that sounds legitimate.

Other tricks include threatening to turn off your energy in a short amount of time; demanding immediate payment often with a prepaid debit card, third-party app like Zelle or Venmo, or an unusual payment method such as cryptocurrency; or even showing up at your door and refusing to show ID.
“If you think a scammer is targeting you, hang up or close the door. It’s not rude; it’s safe,” WPS said.

Call WPS at 800-450-7260 if you have questions about a call, email or text you’ve received. Contact your local law enforcement if you’ve fallen victim to a scam.

For more warning signs, go to wisconsinpublicservice.com/safety/scam.