(Omaha, NE) -- The Omaha Public Power District is reporting an increase in scam calls being made to customers.
OPPD says on Tuesday, 17 customers contacted them to report a scam, and the utility says they got even more calls reporting scams on Thursday. OPPD says one reported scam features a message telling customers they’re eligible for bill credits and a rate reduction if they sign up for a program. The utility says the message asks callers to “Press 1” on their phones if interested. Another scam involves a text from an 800 number, offering discounts through a QR code with OPPD’s logo.
OPPD says often, scammers try to convince their targets that they are overdue on bills or need to pay for some sort of equipment. The callers provide instructions to buy a gift card or pre-paid credit card of some sort to settle up. Otherwise, they claim, power will be disconnected.
The scam calls OPPD says they're hearing about are spoofing local area codes and, in some cases, OPPD’s call center number. If you receive one of these phone calls, hang up. Dial OPPD directly at 402-536-4131. OPPD says only by calling them yourself, can you be assured you are talking to an actual utility representative. They also say if you receive a suspicious QR code, do not scan it.
Customers who have any questions about service, their account or bill status, or if in need of financial assistance should call us at 402-536-4131 in the Omaha calling area or 877-536-4131 outside of the Omaha area.