Lincoln Electric System is encouraging customers to stay alert for scammers. LES has received reports from other Nebraska utilities about an uptick in scams. Scammers often conduct these operations in bursts and likely could turn to LES next.
LES says in some instances, scammers may contact customers claiming there is a credit on their account. They might then request personal banking information to “process the credit.” LES reminds customers that they do not reach out to customers requesting bank account information.
Here are some tips to keep in mind to help you avoid becoming a victim:
- 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 those who opt-in.
- 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, 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 customers call back to make a payment.
- We will only ask for account information to confirm your identity when you call our customer care center. Never give your financial or account information to someone who calls or emails you.
Do not give any information if you think a scammer has contacted you. Call the police department’s non-emergency telephone number (402) 441-6000. to report the scam if you did provide information.