Warning: Government stimulus voucher to pay energy bills is a scam

We recently heard of a scam that could compromise customers’ identity. Beware of any invitation that offers assistance from the federal government to help pay high energy bills due to the heat wave. The only state- and federal-supported program for utility payments is Energy Assistance, and you must qualify to receive assistance. The number to contact in Wisconsin is 866-432-8947. Other tips:

• Guard your identity. Only provide your credit card or bank account number when you are actually paying for something with it.
• Keep your social security number confidential. It’s the key that unlocks your identity. Don’t give it to anyone unless you’re sure who it is and why it’s necessary to provide it.
• The We Energies My Account online bill review and payment system is secure. If you have questions, please call us. We’re here 24/7 to serve you. 800-242-9137.

Related local media coverage:

We Energies warns customers to beware of identity scam (WISN-TV)

Utility customers falling victim to scam (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)  
National media coverage:
Thousands fall victim to utility payment scam (AP via Google News)

Other scams

Criminals sometimes pose as our workers in an attempt to gain access to homes.

Our line mechanics, forestry workers, meter readers, service technicians and other employees as well as our contractors may visit your home or neighborhood from time to time. To ensure your safety, please check for ID. All of our employees and contractors wear photo identification badges. If the employee does not have an ID or if you have questions, call us at 800-242-9137 before allowing anyone access to your home. Although many of our workers wear a uniform, clothing or hard hat that features our logo, some do not. Whether they wear a logo or not, always ask for ID.

If you believe you have been victimized by someone posing as a We Energies representative, contact your local police and report it. We will cooperate with their investigation.