I&M Focuses on Scam Safety for Customers

Indiana Michigan Power's (I&M) focus on safety involves more than just power lines and poles. It includes ensuring customers understand how to stay safe from another danger: scams.

Scam attempts are quickly becoming more elaborate and believable. It can be hard to differentiate what is legitimate from what is an attempt to obtain access to money or personal information. It is critical to know the warning signs of a scam attempt and how to react if you experience one firsthand.

Warning Signs

Consider this scenario. You receive a text from a number you believe to be I&M, stating you have an overdue balance on your monthly bill, which needs paid immediately or your account will be subject to disconnect. This communication comes with no warning or prior messages. A message like this can result in panic, but before acting, stop and look for warning signs. A request for immediate action, especially communicated through text or requiring an unusual form of payment, are urgent red flags to this message being false. I&M will never send a text communicating late payment or threaten disconnect on the first notice of a late payment.

These attempts can also happen in person. A new trend involves individuals going door to door, looking to gain information or access inside. If something feels off during this conversation, it very well could be. Ask to see an identification badge and look for indicators like an I&M logo on clothing or a hard hat to prove the person's connection with the company.

Receiving Questionable Communication

I&M communicates with customers across a variety of channels. Customers should consider how they receive alerts from I&M, and what information is included in them. For example, customers can enroll in text or email alerts through their account to receive updates on outages, bill payment and more. Email communications also include information on reliability enhancements, forestry efforts and energy efficiency tips. I&M will not send communication - text, email or phone call - demanding payment on the spot. This includes not asking for personal information to be shared or making a threat if there is a lack of cooperation.

Knowing What to Do

There are countless scam attempts each day. If you receive an urgent communication from someone stating they are with I&M, stop contact immediately. Please call our customer experience team at 800-311-4634 to confirm the legitimacy of any suspicious calls, texts or emails. This also includes checking on in-person scam attempts.

If you were a target of a scam attempt and provided some form of payment, alert your bank or credit card company immediately to report fraudulent charge and secure your accounts.

For more information utility scams, including phone call or text scams please visit IndianaMichiganPower.com/StopScams.