Be on the Lookout for Utility Scammers During the COVID-19 Crisis

DEM Blogger

March 26, 2020

Due to the COVID-19 crisis, it is important for businesses and citizens to be aware of scammers.  Scammers know what they are doing, and can take advantage of you being preoccupied with everything else going on in your life.

“We’d like to think everyone’s energy is focused on protecting our families and our community as a whole, but we know that scammers like to take advantage of these types of situations,” said LG&E (Louisville Gas and Electric Company) and KU (Kentucky Utilities Company) Vice President-Customer Services, Eileen Saunders.

LG&E and KU would like their customers to always make sure that they get the correct form of identification in the event someone appears at their door stating they work for these companies.

There are other forms of scamming that people need to be aware of including, requests for immediate payment, and “businesses” asking for pre-paid money cards .

LG&E and KU provided some more tips to avoided scammers:

• Contact the authorities – In addition to contacting the company, if you suspect you have been a victim of fraud, or who feel threatened you should report it to your local police department.
• You have options when it comes to payment –  LG&E and KU offer customers a variety of official payment options. A complete list can be found here.
• Keep your personal information safe – LG&E and KU will never call and ask for credit or debit card numbers or other personal information.
• Be skeptical – During times like this, it is important to double check information to make sure what you have read or heard is correct, businesses will appreciate that you have done your research and know what they have to offer.

Be on the lookout for all of these possible warning signs.  This is a prime time for scammers because they know you are tending to other matters in your life.  You do not want being scammed added to your already long list.  Keep your family and friends safe withe these helpful tips during these trying times!