IPL cautions customers on utility scams

INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis Power & Light Company (IPL) has received an increase in reports about payment scams targeting our residential customers. Customers reported they have been contacted by someone claiming to represent IPL and indicating that electric service would be disconnected within 30 minutes if immediate payment was not provided.
One of the most common types of utility scams involves customers receiving unsolicited telephone, electronic or in-person communications by an individual claiming to represent the utility. The scammer demands payment immediately or service will be disconnected. Do not provide personal information or comply with requests for payment. Hang up the phone and call IPL immediately at 317-261-8222 to verify if someone from IPL contacted you about your bill.
IPL reminds customers of our process for requesting and receiving customer information for billing purposes:
• IPL does not require nor recommend a specific payment method or type.
• If IPL does call a customer, our representative will have specific and accurate information related to a customer’s billing account.
• Do not provide personal information or comply with requests for payment unless you are confident you are speaking with an IPL representative.
• Customers are asked to notify IPL if they receive a call and are unsure that the caller is truly an IPL employee. Again, please call IPL at 317-261-8222 if you are a residential customer or 317-261-8444 if you are a business customer to verify any questions related to IPL bill payment and collection.
If you suspect you have been impacted by a scam, please call your local police department’s non-emergency number immediately to report the issue. Additionally, please share this information with friends and colleagues who could potentially become victims of these scams. IPL posts scam alerts to its Facebook and Twitter social media channels, which are easy ways to keep friends, neighbors and colleagues informed.