Duke Energy customers are the current target of a bill paying scam in which criminals pose as Duke Energy representatives in attempt to dupe unsuspecting customers into making payments. The scam has surfaced in several different counties across the state.

Here’s how the scam works: a Duke Energy customer receives an unsolicited phone call from someone claiming to be with the utility provider. The call may even look like its coming from Duke offices because criminals are able to spoof Caller ID. The caller will inform the customer that he or she is late on bill payments and that his or her service will be shut off if an immediate payment is not received. The caller might instruct the customer to purchase a pre-paid debit card and recite the card’s number over the phone. The card’s balance can then be instantly drained by the criminal, leaving the customer out his or her money.

If you have been targeted by this scam, what should you do?

If you receive a call like this, hang up immediately. Duke Energy will never ask you to make a payment over the phone using a prepaid debit card to avoid having your service shut off. Also, Duke Energy always gives customers who have delinquent accounts an advance disconnect notification with their regular monthly billing – never just a single notification one hour before disconnection.

Duke Energy customers who suspect or experience fraud should call Duke Energy in Indiana at 1 (800) 521-2232. Do not call back the number provided to you by the scammer or the number that appeared on Caller ID.

Targets of this scam should also report it to the Indiana Attorney General’s Office by visiting www.IndianaConsumer.com and filing a consumer complaint or calling (800) 382-5516.

The Duke Energy scam is just one variation of a common utility scam which can affect customers of all utility companies. Everyone should know the red flags and follow the below tips to avoid becoming a victim:

• Never agree to give payment to someone over the phone using a prepaid debit card.
• Do not respond to someone who is using fear tactics to convince you to take immediate action.
• Be wary of Caller ID spoofing.
• If you receive an unsolicited call, hang up and place the call yourself after looking up the entity’s legitimate phone number.

For more tips and helpful information, visit the Attorney General’s consumer protection website: www.IndianaConsumer.com.