SRP warns of telephone fraud
Customers targeted by scam artists asking for credit card information
SRP customers are being warned of a telephone scam known as "caller ID spoofing," in which another person or company "hijacks" the telephone number of a business or individual and the "hijacked" number will appear on the recipient's caller ID instead of the actual caller's information.
These imposters, according to Michael Lowe, manager of Customer Services, are likely attempting to use any information they receive to make illegal purchases.
"SRP customer service representatives do not call our customers and ask for credit card numbers," said Lowe.
Report calls to the FCC
SRP has filed a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission. We ask that anyone receiving these calls also report it to the FCC. If individuals have been victimized, they should continue to report it to their local law enforcement agency or their Attorney General's office.
FCC Contact information:
- By Mail:
- Federal Communication Commission
- 445 12th St. SW
- Washington, DC 20554
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- Phone: 1-888-CALL-FCC (888-225-5322)
- TTY: 1-888-TELL-FCC (888-835-5322)
- Email: fccinfo@fcc.gov
Be aware of other scams
In the past, thieves have impersonated utility company employees to steal credit
and debit card numbers.
- Some scam artists offer cash for an opportunity to present information on
energy-saving programs. These imposters could be attempting to sell programs or services that do not exist, according to Lowe. "In the absence of a home energy audit or other appointment scheduled by the customer, our employees have no reason to enter the home," Lowe said.
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There have also been possible scams related to the sale of residential solar energy systems. These fraudulent companies falsely indicate that they are "sponsored" by SRP. Thoroughly check out a company's credentials before you sign any agreement.
- Mail fraud schemes involve letters containing a phony SRP check, often with the promise of more money. The letters appear in varying form and have been showing up nationwide and in Canada.
SRP Risk Management and Security Operations officials emphasize that, even though the SRP logo and watermark on the checks appear authentic, SRP is not involved with any of the activities.
Be aware that trying to process a check of this nature may put your financial information at risk and may subject you to identity theft. Also, the letter accompanying the check often advises recipients to call and verify participation or receipt of check. The "customer-service" number usually is an expensive per-minute ploy; the recipient is put on hold in order to accumulate excessive charges.
How to properly identify SRP employees
SRP customer service and construction employees always wear company uniforms. They also:
- Carry identification cards
- Identify themselves and the purpose of their visit
- Should only enter the home at the customer's request or while on official company business
- Drive company vehicles that are permanently marked with the SRP name and logo
What you can do
To avoid becoming a victim of these scams, follow these recommendations:
- If you feel threatened, call 911.
- Do not give your credit or debit card number or other personal information to
any caller or visitor without knowing their true identity.
- Call SRP at (602) 236-8888 for accurate information about your electric account
and to obtain SRP employee identification and program information.
- Contact local police if you receive a similar call from a scam artist.
"SRP does not sell products or services door-to-door, nor do we ask to enter
customers' homes or offer cash to attempt to solicit appointments in people's homes,"
said Lowe.
Arizona residents who believe they may be a target or victim of fraud should contact the state Attorney General's office at (602) 542-5763.
