(KNSI) – Xcel Energy says scammers are targeting new customers.
When looking online for a phone number to connect to the utility, many searches are pulling up a false result. The scammers then collect sensitive information that they can sell or use to gain access to financial data, such as bank accounts or credit card numbers associated with automatic payments.
Xcel Energy says the scams can be complex, but there is one major red flag to be aware of that could spare you from a lot of hassle. The utility says they always add fees onto a customer’s upcoming bill, whereas the scammers demand payment immediately over the phone. Sometimes they will call after the fact and demand payment.
Xcel says it can take months to realize you have been scammed because the groups doing it often contact the utility themselves and have service at the address started so they can use the data and financial information they have obtained through fraudulent means over the course of several months.
Xcel Energy’s direct line is 1-800-895-4999. The company says the My Account portal on its website is another option to check on the status of any new service requests.
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