Pacific Power warns customers about billing scams

PORTLAND, Ore. — Heading into the holiday season, Pacific Power is reminding customers to be vigilant about fraudulent communications from scammers posing as utility representatives. This activity tends to increase during this time of year.

Customers can protect themselves from these types of schemes by being aware of the following facts:

• Scammers will often tell you that your service is scheduled to be interrupted in the next 30 to 60 minutes.

Fact: Pacific Power will not contact any customer demanding immediate payment to avoid disconnecting their service the same day. Be suspicious of anyone who contacts you demanding on-the-spot payment.

• Fraudsters may ask you to purchase a prepaid card and tell them the card information over the phone.

Fact: Pacific Power does not ask customers to make payments by purchasing a prepaid card. You and other customers can always choose how you would like to make payments.

• If you receive one of these calls, ask the caller to state your account number and compare it with the number listed on your bill.

Fact: Pacific Power customer service employees will always have your correct account number.

• Scammers have increasingly used text messages as a means of targeting victims.

Fact: Pacific Power will not demand payment via text message. Pacific Power encourages customers to set up their online billing profile at Pay My Bill (on PacificPower.net) where they can pay bills and review statements. 

Scammers may use a sophisticated and deceptive tactic that makes it appear to caller ID systems that the call is coming from Pacific Power when it is not. Hang up if you receive a suspicious or concerning call, and call our customer service line directly at 1-888-221-7070.

Pacific Power is asking customers to report information about any scam call received, including the phone number the person is calling from and any information that may help to track down the fraudsters.