Austin Energy Customers Targeted by Sophisticated Scammers

Austin, TX - Austin Energy customers, predominantly people of color and other minority groups, are being targeted by a wave of sophisticated scammers, exploiting their vulnerability and desperation for financial gain. These scammers, using the dark web, have upped their game, according to Jennifer Floyd, director of customer care services.

The Dark Underbelly of the Web

Floyd revealed that these digital criminals are accessing personal information through the dark web, a hotbed of illegal activity, to impersonate utility companies and defraud innocent people. The scammers' sophistication and personalization of their approach make them even more dangerous, preying on people during extreme weather when utilities are a necessity, not a luxury.

The Numbers Don't Lie

With 204 crank calls reported this year, and over $13,000 stolen from unsuspecting customers, the impact is undeniable. Floyd explained that the scammers often operate from secretive locations, making them difficult to track and hold accountable. Their tactics include demanding personal financial information, threatening immediate disconnection, and feigning payment issues to redirect payments to their fake sites.

Fighting Back

Austin Energy is fighting back by being a part of Utilities United Against Scams, a consortium taking on fraud. They urge customers to be vigilant, reporting suspicious calls by dialing 311, and offer payment extensions for scam victims.

Protect Yourself

If you suspect you've fallen victim to these criminals, immediately contact your bank. These scammers rely on the vulnerability of their targets, so be aware of red flags, including requests for personal information and threats of disconnection. Stay alert, protect yourself, and don't let these grifters win.

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“They're personalizing their experience with the customer, unfortunately for nefarious reasons.” - Jennifer Floyd, Director of Customer Care Services, Austin Energy.