Metro Creative Connection
Submitted by SRP
As the Memorial Day Weekend approaches, SRP and AARP urge customers, including older adults, to be aware of common scam tactics in order to avoid falling victim to a scam.
“Arizona has the highest rate of fraud against older adults in the country, with 289 cases per 100,000 seniors. Raising awareness is essential to protect this vulnerable population,” said Alejandro Juarez, communications director for AARP Arizona. “Utility scams can be especially effective because of the urgency they create.”
SRP will not ask customers to make an immediate payment by phone, email or text or request payment in person. If a customer is at risk of service disconnection, SRP will always send one or more notices by mail and, if a customer is enrolled in SRP eNotes™, by email. SRP does call customers if they are at risk of disconnection but will never pressure customers into paying over the phone, text, email or in person, or request a particular payment method.
“We typically see an increase in scam calls over holiday weekends and during the summer,” said Zack Thompson, director of customer contact operations at SRP. “People are out of town or hosting guests, and when they get a call threatening to shut off their power, many rush to pay. SRP will never demand immediate payment. If you are ever in doubt as to the status of your account, please call SRP directly.”
Common scam tactics
- Links to fake payment websites via sponsored ads or QR codes
- Texts or emails from the scammer with links to imposter utility payment page
- Emails mimicking SRP bills
- In-person scammers posing as utility workers
How to protect yourself
- Stay calm: Scammers aim to create panic. Utilities do not cut service without prior notice.
- Call SRP directly: Only SRP can confirm your account status. Call (602) 236-8888 (English) or (602) 236-1111 (Spanish).
- Watch for unusual payment methods: SRP will never request payment via gift cards, prepaid debit cards or cryptocurrency.
- Don’t share personal information: SRP does not need your birthdate or Social Security number to process payments.
- Never pay in person: SRP employees will never request payment or sell services in person.
- Avoid unverified links: Don’t click on links in emails, texts or QR codes unless you’re sure they are from SRP.
- Report it: Notify law enforcement, SRP and your neighbors if you suspect a scam.
SRP accepts payments online through SRP My Account™, the SRP Power App™ and SRP M-Power® App, or through its Paymentus website. Customers can also pay in person with cash at over 900 retail locations throughout the Valley. These locations require the barcode that is only available on a customer’s SRP bill or SRP cash payment card that is accessed via SRP My Account.
If you receive a suspicious call, email or text or believe you’ve been targeted by a scam, call SRP immediately.
AARP also offers support and guidance. The AARP Fraud Helpline is free and available to anyone at 877-908-3360. Online support sessions are also available for emotional support and scam prevention.
To learn more about fraud prevention, visit www.aarp.org/fraudwatch.
