Indiana Michigan Power joins "Utilities United Against Scams Day"

FORT WAYNE, IN-- Indiana Michigan Power is joining electric and gas companies across North America in fighting scams targeting customers. 

As a part of this effort, November 16th has been designated "Utilities United Against Scams Day."

Scammers- who pose as utilities employees and demand payment under false threat of disconnected services- are especially active around the holiday season. I&M warns that these thieves typically attempt to steal money by phone or in person, but to be wary of falsified mail and emails as well. 

To better protect their customers, I&M released this information: 

What are the scammers doing?

·         Threatening to shut off power unless an immediate payment is made;

·         Instructing customers to go to a certain store and purchase a prepaid card then call for further instructions;

·         Telling customers they need a new electric meter but must make a payment before the new meter is installed;

·         Offering a discount on their I&M bill if they sign up for auto-pay;

·         Negotiating total bill amounts if an immediate payment is made;

·         Demanding a deposit be paid immediately.

How can I&M customers protect themselves?

Know I&M will never:

·         Disconnect service without prior warning;

·         Accept payments in person or call and ask for credit/debit card information over the phone;

·         Insist a payment be made with a prepaid credit card;

·         Ask a customer to meet us in a parking lot, at a store or other location to make a payment.

Indiana Michigan Power states that "If a customer suspects someone is trying to scam them, they should hang up and call the local police and then I&M at 1-800-311-4634. Never dial the phone number the scammers provide."

For more information about Utilities United Against Scams Day, visit IndianaMichiganPower.com/StopScams