WPS, law enforcement warning customers of spike in utility scams

WISCONSIN – Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) is partnering with police and sheriff’s departments across northcentral and northeastern Wisconsin to warn the public of a recent increase in utility scam attempts.

WPS in a release said the spike in scam attempts occurred this week.

According to WPS, scammers were “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.”

Victims of the scams had lost more than $10,000.00 this week, WPS said, noting that many of the calls were made to businesses or religious organizations.

Residential customers also reported receiving scam phone calls.

WPS said scammers may:

• 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, a 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.

“This time of year, con artists often prey on fear and try to get customers to act quickly without thinking twice,” WPS stated. “Don’t become their next victim – slow down and know the warning signs. If you think a scammer is targeting you, hang up or close the door. It’s not rude; it’s safe.”

For more information on the scam attempts, call WPS at 800-450-7260. Individuals who believe they have been targeted by a scam or have fallen victim are asked to contact local law enforcement.

To learn more, visit www.wisconsinpublicservice.com/safety/scam.