(WTAQ-WLUK) — Wisconsin Public Service is teaming up with law enforcement across 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.
Some customers have fallen victim to these scams, 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.
Here are some red flags:
- Pretend to be from WPS by spoofing caller ID to display “Wisconsin Public Service” or by using a recording that sounds legitimate.
- Threaten to turn off your energy in a short amount of time.
- Demand immediate payment often with a prepaid debit card, third-party app like Zelle or Venmo, or an unusual payment method such as cryptocurrency.
- Show up at your door and refuse to show ID.
What else you can do
If you think a scammer is targeting you, hang up or close the door. It’s not rude; it’s safe.
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.
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