Memphis Light, Gas and Water
Division would like customers to be aware of the latest warning issued by the
Better Business Bureau (BBB). Rising temperatures often result in rising
utility costs.
Scammers use this opportunity to tempt consumers with the promise
of lower utility payments.
How the
Scam Works:
Customers
get a call from someone claiming to represent MLGW. This
"representative" says that they are part of a program to help
homeowners lower their energy bills. The details vary; this "program"
may involve registering for tax credits, enrolling in an alternative energy
program, or signing up with a competitive energy supplier.
In some
cases, con artists want to enroll customers in a non-existent program or sign
them up for tax credits, which can require sharing personal information such as
Social Security numbers, opening them up to the risk of identity theft. In
other versions, the "program" involves paying upfront for future
energy savings that never materialize.
Customers should also be wary of social media postings that do not come
directly from MLGW.
Tips to avoid an energy bill scam:
1.Verify the program before enrolling.
Before signing up, confirm that you are dealing with a representative of a real
program. Call MLGW at 544-6549 or check mlgw.com.
2.Check out BBB Tips: Many scams use
similar techniques. Visit bbb.org/utilityscam/ and bbb.org/grantscam/ for more
advice.
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