Alarming spike in scam attempts

We’ve seen a record number of scam calls reported to us this week. On April 13, we had more than 80 customers report suspicious phone calls. The criminals claim the customers are behind on their bills and may face disconnection unless an immediate payment is made with a pre-paid debit card.

We do not solicit payments in this manner. If you get a call that sounds suspicious, hang up immediately and call us at 800-242-9137.

The scammers are sophisticated. Several customers reported to us that, when they called the criminals back, a recorded We Energies phone greeting could be heard. The scammers do this to try to make their effort seem legitimate.

The scammers also are intimidating. If you do not cooperate, they apply more pressure by implying that if you do not act within a few hours, your power may be turned off. They will say anything to frighten you into becoming a victim.

A local Milwaukee television station confronted one of the scammers in a phone interview. Not only did the crook admit to attempting to bilk We Energies customers, he expressed no remorse over it.

If you experience a loss through this type of scam, report the crime to local law enforcement.

Fox6 news story about scam