The Lincoln Electric System (LES) issued a public warning on Thursday after receiving reports that scammers are targeting both residential and commercial customers with threatening phone calls. In the calls, the fraudsters claim they will disconnect the victim’s electricity within hours unless an immediate payment is sent.

How the scam works

According to LES, the callers present themselves as utility representatives and create a sense of urgency by stating that power will be turned off “within hours” if the alleged bill is not paid right away. The scammers then request payment through unconventional methods, often urging the victim to act before they have a chance to verify the claim.

LES response and advice

LES officials stress that the utility will never demand payment over the phone or threaten an immediate shutoff without first providing a formal notice. They advise customers to trust their instincts: if a call feels suspicious, the safest step is to hang up and call LES directly at 402‑475‑4211 to confirm the status of their account.

LES also reminds customers that legitimate notices are mailed and that the utility does not require cash or gift‑card payments for any bill. The utility’s customer‑service team is prepared to answer questions and help verify whether a call was genuine.

Protecting yourself from utility scams

While the specific number of calls has not been disclosed, LES says the pattern is consistent with a broader wave of utility‑related scams that have affected other regions. Residents are encouraged to:

• Never provide personal or payment information to an unsolicited caller.
• Verify any claim of an outstanding balance by contacting LES through the official phone number or online portal.
• Report suspicious calls to LES so the utility can track and address fraudulent activity.

By staying vigilant and using the official contact channels, customers can help protect themselves and their neighbors from falling victim to these deceptive tactics.

Community impact

Scams that threaten essential services like electricity can cause unnecessary anxiety for families and businesses. LES’s proactive warning aims to reassure the Lincoln community that the utility is actively monitoring the situation and providing clear guidance to keep everyone’s power reliable and safe.

For further information or to report a suspicious call, residents should reach out to LES at the number provided above.

Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.