In preparation for the upcoming spring season, Dominion Energy is warning customers about the potential increase in scam activity. As the temperatures start to rise, scammers may use various methods such as door-to-door visits, phone calls, or text messages to target unsuspecting individuals. Bob Metzinger, the general manager of Customer Service at Dominion Energy Ohio, emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant against these scams, stating, "Scammers never seem to take a day off. We continually hear about new ways scammers are approaching our customers to get their sensitive information."
Dominion Energy provides customers with a list of warning signs to help identify utility scams. The company emphasizes that they will never demand payment with a credit or debit card over the phone, nor will they ask customers to wire a transfer, send a money order, or purchase a prepaid or gift card to pay a utility bill. Additionally, Dominion Energy does not make threatening calls regarding service disconnection if immediate payment is not made.
To further deceive customers, utility scammers may falsify their caller ID to make it appear as if the call is coming from a Dominion Energy customer service number. In such cases, Dominion Energy advises customers to hang up if they have any doubts about the legitimacy of the call.
Small businesses are often targeted by scammers who threaten service disconnection during peak business hours to instill fear and urgency. Dominion Energy warns customers to be wary of such tactics and not to allow individuals claiming to be Dominion Energy employees into their homes without proper identification, an appointment, or a reported emergency.
If customers receive a suspicious call, Dominion Energy provides a three-step approach to dealing with such situations. First, they should hang up and refrain from providing any account, payment, or personal information. Second, customers can verify their account balance and payment due date online or through the Dominion Energy app to confirm the legitimacy of the call. Finally, customers should ignore suspicious emails or text messages, avoiding clicking on any links or attachments related to energy bill payment.
For additional tips on scam prevention, customers are encouraged to visit DominionEnergy.com.
In conclusion, Dominion Energy is urging customers to remain vigilant and informed about utility scams as the spring season approaches. By being aware of the warning signs and following the recommended steps when encountering suspicious calls or messages, customers can protect themselves from falling victim to these scams.
About Dominion Energy:
Dominion Energy is a leading provider of electricity and natural gas to approximately 7 million customers across 15 states. Headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the company is committed to delivering reliable, affordable, and clean energy while aiming to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050.
For media inquiries, please contact Stephanie Moore at 330-690-9422 or Stephanie.E.Moore@DominionEnergy.com.