HOT SPRINGS -- Entergy Arkansas Inc. says scammers are targeting its customers using a spoofed phone number to appear as if they are calling from the Lake Catherine power generation plant.
"They may sound very convincing when they tell customers that their electric bill payment is past due, and service will be disconnected if payment isn't made," Entergy said Thursday in a news release.
Scammers then direct the customer to transfer funds electronically, sometimes through money wiring systems or prepaid cards. In some instances, callers have demanded immediate payment over the phone.
"The callers often use sophisticated spoofing technology to replicate the local utility's name and number on the customer's caller ID box, making it particularly difficult for the customer to spot this scam," the release said.
"This is not Entergy. No utility does business this way."
Jim Garland, Entergy's regional customer service manager, said the scam is circulating statewide, "but the Lake Catherine Steam Plant's main number is being spoofed to customers telling them that we are going to shut off their power within 30 minutes unless they pay."
Customers who receive calls like this should hang up immediately. If they have questions about their account, they should call (800) 368-3749.
Customers should use only authorized methods and legitimate banking information to pay their Entergy bills, the release said, including paying online at myAccount.
Customers can also pay by phone using a credit card, debit card or electronic check and by calling (800) 584-1241. "BillMatrix, our pay-by-phone provider, will charge a $2.95 service fee. BillMatrix is the only authorized credit card vendor authorized to process these types of payments," Entergy said.
Customers can also choose an auto pay bank draft that automatically deducts a bill payment from a checking account each month or pay by mail.
"If you believe you are a victim of this scam, you should notify the proper authorities, such as the local police or the state attorney general's office," the release said.
Metro on 10/11/2019