LPEA warns members of phone scam during the holidays
LPEA warns members of phone scam during the holidays
Date Published

LPEA warns members of phone scam during the holidays

Scam effort threatens disconnection of electric service for non-payment

DURANGO, Colo. – La Plata Electric Association (LPEA) is warning its commercial and residential members to not be misled by impersonators claiming their electricity will be disconnected during the holidays for non-payment. The scam claims LPEA will disconnect power for lack of payment.

“Holidays are the perfect time for scammers to target electric utility customers,” said Ron Meier, LPEA manager of engineering and member services. “Scammers know that utility companies like La Plata Electric are typically closed several days for the duration of a federal holiday. During this time, scammers contact and threaten to disconnect a member’s electricity if a payment is not received immediately.”

Meier adds that LPEA does not make phone calls threatening to immediately disconnect anyone’s electricity for lack of payment, nor demand members get a prepaid credit card to provide funds over the phone. Members should never give personal credit card information over the phone. When an LPEA account is past due, members receive a series of written notices and are provided adequate time to resolve their electric utility bills before any disconnect would take place.

“Be suspicious of any phone calls received at night or on the weekends from individuals claiming to represent La Plata Electric,” added Meier. “Business members should also be advised that scammers call during the holidays with urgent threats that their electric service will be disconnected during peak business hours if a payment is not provided immediately.”

LPEA Customer Service Representatives can be reached at (970) 247-5786 during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. for clarification of any billing questions. The LPEA offices in Durango and Pagosa Springs will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1 for Thanksgiving. No disconnects will be conducted by LPEA during this timeframe.

LPEA members have the option to view their account status, pay their electric utility bill, report service issues and contact LPEA using the SmartHub application available at www.lpea.coop.

In 2019, LPEA, celebrated 80 years providing safe, reliable electricity at the lowest reasonable cost to approximately 34,000 members, located in the counties of La Plata, Archuleta, and segments of Hinsdale, Mineral and San Juan. For additional information, contact LPEA at (970) 247-5786 or visit www.lpea.coop.