Georgia Power is urging its customers to remain vigilant against utility scams, especially as National Utility Scam Awareness Day is observed and the holiday season approaches. The company notes that scammers often attempt to pressure individuals with threats of immediate service disconnection unless a payment is made or billing information is updated.
“Georgia Power strongly encourages customers to report any suspicious activity and to follow the company’s recommended security practices to safeguard their accounts and personal information,” the company stated.
Customers are advised that if they receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be from Georgia Power and demanding immediate payment, they should hang up and log on to their account at GeorgiaPower.com to verify their account status. Scammers have also been known to promote fraudulent 800 numbers; therefore, customers should use the customer service number found on their bill (888-660-5890), which can be verified at GeorgiaPower.com/ContactUs. The company warns not to trust caller ID identifications.
Georgia Power further advises deleting all emails that demand immediate payment or personal information, or those sent from entities other than Georgia Power.
The company has identified evolving scam tactics such as requests for payment through unauthorized apps like Cash App. “Georgia Power does not accept payments via Cash App. Valid Georgia Power payment options include Venmo, Apple Pay, Amazon Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal – learn more here,” according to the statement.
There have also been reports of fake digital ads on platforms like Google directing customers to non-company websites for bill payments. These sites may request personal or financial information. Customers are reminded always to ensure they are using the official website, GeorgiaPower.com.
Georgia Power clarified several points about its operations:
– It does not call customers asking for credit card or pre-paid debit card numbers over the phone.
– It does not accept cryptocurrency as a payment option.
– It does not call customers to set up automatic payments, update sensitive account information, or ask them to pay for new meters.
– Employees do not collect payments in person except at Authorized Payment Locations (APLs).
If an account becomes past due, communication will occur via a pre-recorded message or letter requesting contact through the number listed on the bill. These messages will not prompt customers to stay on the line or press a number for immediate connection with a representative.
In rare cases where an employee must visit a customer’s home or business for service-related issues, they will be in uniform with proper identification including a badge displaying their photo, name, and company logo. Company vehicles will also be marked accordingly.
The company continues efforts in partnership with law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute individuals posing as employees in order to defraud customers. Reports of scams can be submitted at GeorgiaPower.com/ReportAScam.
