Tuesday, December 8, 2015

NIPSCO WARNING OF SCAMS

NIPSCO is warning customers of a rise in telephone scams, which began over the weekend and has continued into Monday.

Reports state that the scammers are contacting businesses and residential customers from various 800 numbers claiming to be NIPSCO employees and informing them of a delinquent bill. They tell customers that immediate payment is required or their service(s) will be shut off.

In some cases, customers are asked to purchase a money gram or prepaid debit card and then prompted to call a different 800 number to make their payment. In other cases, some have provided addresses for local NIPSCO operating facilities and asked customers to meet them in person, to collect payment.

Customers should never call any number other than 1-800-4NIPSCO when dealing with their account.

NIPSCO never asks for customers, who are behind on payments, to purchase a prepaid debit card or to pay cash to avoid disconnection. Customers can pay NIPSCO online, by phone, by mail or at one of NIPSCO’s authorized payment locations. Legitimate bill assistance programs are available to qualifying customers.

Potential threats or scams can appear in a variety of forms, including phone calls and e-mails. If you believe you have been the victim of a scam, contact 911 as well as your local banking institution or credit card company if applicable.