Idaho Power Says There’s an Increase in Scams Targeting Customers

BOISE, Idaho – The number of attempted scam calls from people claiming to be from Idaho Power Co. have been on the rise recently, according to the utility company.

A higher number of both its residential and business customers have recently been targeted by telephone scammers, the company said on Tuesday.

“Scammers are getting more and more sophisticated, employing technology to trick customers into thinking they have a call from — or are placing a call to — their utility,” said Customer Service Senior Manager Maggie Brilz. “To reach Idaho Power, customers should always call 208-388-2323 or 1-800-488-6151 outside the Treasure Valley. Any other phone numbers could be fraudulent.”

If you receive a suspicious call, never divulge personal information or offer to provide payment. Instead, call the numbers listed above or contact the company online.

As a reminder, Idaho Power says it does not do the following:

• Demand immediate payment
• Ask for same day payment via pre-paid cards or wire transfers to international accounts
• Require payment for a defective meter
• Send unidentified employees to your home
• Call you from a 1-800 number

What does the utility company do?

• Make payment arrangements and offer convenient online, mail and in-person payment options
• Send notices and place phone calls attempting to contact customers prior to disconnect
• Take payments over the phone using a third-party vendor
• Have personnel wearing Idaho Power identification come to your home for various reasons.