Fraud Alert! Beware of recent fraudulent activity targeted at Duke Energy customers
Recent scams in Duke Energy’s service territories have left some customers out of money and without power. These customers were scammed by individuals or companies claiming to represent Duke Energy.
Duke Energy reminds you to protect yourself by contacting us and local law enforcement if you suspect or experience fraudulent activity.
Based on current events, Duke Energy has formed this list of fraud prevention tips to protect customers:
- Duke Energy will never contact you and ask for account or personal information. Even if your caller identification displays Duke Energy’s name or phone number, choose to hang up and call the company directly at 1-800-777-9898.
- Do not accept offers from anyone, including those claiming to be Duke Energy employees, to pay your bill or provide any other service for a fee.
- Duke Energy only charges convenience fees for payments using its automated phone system, one-time payments made through its website and at select authorized pay agents. The company does not charge extra fees for paying bills by mail or through customers’ online banking services.
- If you or someone you know has a question about whether someone is a legitimate representative of Duke Energy, call the company at 1-800-777-9898. Call police immediately if you believe the person is an imposter.
- Guard against fraud – never share your personal information, including birthday, Social Security number or banking account information.
Examples of Potential Scams
Misleading Phone Calls
Some customers report receiving phone calls from individuals identifying themselves as Duke Energy employees. In some cases, the customer’s caller identification will display Duke Energy’s name or phone number. The caller attempts to obtain customer account or personal information.
Duke Energy does not make outbound calls to request personal information. If you receive a call from identifying themselves as a Duke Energy employee, you’re advised to politely hang up the phone and call Duke Energy directly at 1-800-777-9898. A Duke Energy customer service representative will gladly assist you.
Third-Party Payment
Scam artists claiming to be Duke Energy employees are telling customers they have the ability to wipe out entire account balances – for a cash fee. Please know that no one from Duke Energy will ever offer to pay a customer’s bill in exchange for a fee. Duke Energy only charges convenience fees for payments using its automated phone system and one-time payments made through its website. The company does not charge customers extra fees for paying their bills by mail, at authorized pay agent locations or through customers’ online banking services.
If you have a question about whether someone is a legitimate representative of Duke Energy, contact the company directly at 1-800-777-9898 to verify the person’s identity. Call police immediately if you believe the person is an imposter.
