LINCOLN — Lincoln Electric System has received multiple reports from customers of an uptick in scams in the LES service area. LES encourages customers to stay alert for scams to protect themselves and their sensitive personal information.
“Scammers are constantly seeking new ways to trick residents, typically at a financial loss to the customer,” said Lisa Hale, LES vice president of Customer Services. “Pay attention to who is sending you emails or texts, and don’t click on links unless you know the sender.”
Scammers can fake emails, Wi-Fi networks and phone numbers. Most recently, scammers have sent text messages to residents claiming that their electric bill is due, threatening to disconnect power and offering discounts on the bill. A malicious link then accompanies the text message.
“We understand that the threat of having your power shut off is incredibly distressing,” said Hale. “However, LES only sends text messages to customers who opt into the service, and customers should always verify that the information in the text matches the LES account information on their bill.”
LES wants customers to keep the following tips in mind:
- LES will not contact you via phone, threatening to disconnect service or asking for immediate payment. The utility uses disconnect notices and reminders on bills for delinquent accounts, door hangers for service terminations, and email/text alerts for only those who opt in to receive them.
- No legitimate utility will ask for gift cards, prepaid cards or money transfers as forms of payment.
- Maintain good cyber hygiene by avoiding suspicious emails and texts, especially ones that ask you to do something right away or require personal information, and avoid using public Wi-Fi when conducting sensitive activities online.
- LES does not use automated “robo” calls requesting that customers call back to make a payment.
- When you call LES, the utility only asks for account information to confirm your identity. Never give your financial or account information to someone who calls, texts or emails you.
If a call or text message seems suspicious, do not provide any information. Report it to the attorney general’s office immediately. If you DID provide information, call the police department’s nonemergency telephone number to report the scam.
If you have any questions about your account or would like to verify its status, access your account at LES.com or contact LES directly by emailing [email protected] or calling 402.475.4211, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.