Portland General Electric warns customers about utility scams involving fake workers and urgent payment threats, urging verification, caution with links, and reporting suspected fraud.
Portland, OR. — Portland General Electric is warning customers to remain alert after receiving reports of misleading and deceptive utility scams involving individuals posing as utility workers.
According to PGE, scammers have recently used high-pressure tactics, including unannounced home visits and urgent demands for immediate payment, to trick customers into providing money or personal information. These schemes may also involve fraudulent phone calls, text messages, emails, or social media messages designed to appear legitimate.
PGE advises customers to always ask to see a visitor’s employee badge and to independently verify the individual’s identity by calling PGE directly at 503-228-6322. The utility emphasized that it provides multiple advance notices and payment options before any service disconnection and does not demand immediate payment…