Lincoln Electric System (LES) is warning customers after a recent increase in the number of reported scams related to the utility.
The most recent scam reported involved customers receiving phone calls from a bad actor posing as LES, threatening to disconnect power within an hour if payment was not made. LES is advising customers to stay alert, as scams are more common during the holiday season.
“LES never contacts you via phone to disconnect services or ask for immediate payment,” said Lisa Hale, LES vice president of Customer Services. “We use disconnect notices and reminders on bills for delinquent accounts, door hangers for service terminations and email or text alerts for those who opt-in.”
Customers have also reported that when they call the number provided by scammers, they hear a recording saying they have reached LES.
“If you receive a call from someone saying they are from LES, hang up and call our main number to speak directly with our customer service staff,” said Hale. “We are happy to take your call if you are ever in doubt.”
Additionally, LES wants customers to keep in mind that no legitimate utility will ask for gift cards, prepaid cards or money transfers as forms of payment. LES will never meet with customers out in the community to accept payment. Customers may pay bills online, over the phone, via mail or by visiting LES at 2620 Fairfield St.
Avoid suspicious emails, 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. When you call LES, the Customer Care team will only ask for account information to confirm your identity. Never give your financial or account information to someone who calls or emails you.
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 customerservice@LES.com or calling 402-475-4211.