PNM warns of aggressive scam targeting business customers

Imposters threaten to shut off power unless customers pay

By PNM

Albuquerque, N.M.) – PNM is receiving reports from business customers that people claiming to be with PNM are threatening to disconnect their electricity unless a payment is made. Some ask for payments made by pre-paid gift card, PayPal donation, or credit card over the phone. PNM has received more than 300 scam reports from business customers in the last two weeks. Scammers are primarily targeting businesses in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe, but reports have been received throughout New Mexico for both residential and business customers.

Some scammers have figured out a way to add a false PNM caller ID name appear and have similar recorded on-hold messaging when customers call the number back. Often times, they target customers on Fridays, threatening disconnection of service over the weekend unless they pay within a small window of time, leaving customers to panic and often pay up, even when all the signs of a scam are present. However, PNM does not disconnect on weekends or holidays.

“Unfortunately, this is not a new scam against utility customers across the country and imposters are more sophisticated than ever,” said Becky Teague, Vice President of PNM External Affairs. “But there are things customers can do to recognize these scams and to protect themselves from falling victim to it.”

Here are some things to keep in mind:

· Check your bill. If you have not received a bold disconnect notice on page 1, it’s a scam.
· Customers can call the number on their bill to find the true status of their account.
· PNM does sometimes make calls to customers who are past due, but scammers have no way of knowing who those customers are.
· If you are asked to purchase pre-paid gift cards or pay through PayPal, it is a scam.

It is helpful if customers jot down any details, such as the name, the number on the caller ID, and the specifics of the request, and then report it to PNM at 888-DIAL-PNM. Customers should also contact local law enforcement if they feel like their safety is at risk or if they are a victim of fraud.