Protect Yourself From Utility Scams

In an era where digital communication dominates our lives, utility scams have become increasingly prevalent and sophisticated. These scams often target unsuspecting individuals, exploiting their trust and financial vulnerability. Whether through phone calls, emails, or in-person visits, scammers employ various tactics to deceive consumers into divulging sensitive information or making payments for fictitious services. Staying informed and adopting proactive measures is crucial to shield yourself from these fraudulent schemes. Here are several strategies to protect yourself from utility scams:

• Verify Call Identity. Always verify the identity of the person saying they are calling from Central Lincoln. Our representatives typically provide specific details about your account or service. If you are ever in doubt, hang up and contact us directly using the official contact information on our website or your bill.
• Beware of High-Pressure Tactics. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to coerce you into immediate action. Be wary of callers who demand urgent payment to avoid disconnection of service or ask you to pay with a reloadable card or gift card.
• Scrutinize Emails and Links. Phishing emails disguised as official correspondence from utility companies are common tactics scammers use. Use caution when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unfamiliar senders. Verify the sender's email address and scrutinize for grammatical errors or inconsistencies, which are telltale signs of phishing attempts.
• Secure Personal Information. Utility scams frequently aim to extract personal information such as social security numbers, bank account details, or passwords. Never disclose sensitive information over the phone or via email unless you initiate contact and are confident of the recipient's authenticity.
• Report Suspicious Activity. If you suspect a utility scam has targeted you, please note any information you can - phone number on caller ID, addresses or call back numbers for making payments, etc. - report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov. By reporting fraudulent activity, you contribute to efforts to combat scams and protect others from falling victim.

By remaining cautious of unsolicited communications, verifying the authenticity of contacts, and protecting your personal information, you can reduce the risk of falling prey to fraudulent schemes. If you are ever in doubt, hang up. Log into your SmartHub account to review your billing statement, or call us at (877) 265-3211.