Utility scams are a nationwide issue. Everyone can be a target. Recognize the warning signs to protect yourself and your bank account.
Scammers use sophisticated tactics and often will threaten utility service disconnects unless an immediate payment is made with:
- Pre-paid debit card
- Gift card
- Cryptocurrency
- Barcodes
- Mobile payment apps
One of the most common types of utility scams involves customers receiving unsolicited communications by an individual claiming to represent the utility.
- Calls
- Texts
- Emails
- In-person visits
- Review your account online at myaccount.aes.com or call Customer Care at 800-433-8500 to verify your account status.
- Don’t immediately make a payment, especially if someone demands payment by pre-paid debit (often referred to as "Greendot") or Bitcoin, a type of cryptocurrency.
- Do not provide personal information or comply with requests for payments unless you are confident with whom they are speaking.
- Be aware of your personal safety and only make in-person payments at an authorized pay agent.
- Pay your bill by phone by calling 800-433-8500 if you're a residential customer or 800-253-5801 if you're a business customer
- Please call your local police department's non-emergency number immediately to report it.
- Call AES Ohio to report the issue.
Scammers may:
- Threaten disconnection for an alleged past due bill.
- Promise big savings with their products or services.
- Say you’re entitled to a refund or eligible for a rebate.
- Demand immediate payment with a pre-paid card, gift card, cryptocurrency, barcodes, or mobile payment apps.
- Spoof their phone number to look like ours.
- Target customers through unsolicited calls, text, emails or in-person visits.
AES Ohio employees & contractors:
- Always wear an AES badge.
- Do not sell services door-to-door.
- Will have specific and accurate information related to your billing and account.
- Will not ask to see your bill.
- Do not require or strongly recommend a specific payment method.