Callers posing as utility workers dial up trouble for WPS customers

GREEN BAY - A warning for Wisconsin Public Service customers.

The utility says some people have reported getting calls threatening disconnection if they don't pay up.

However the calls are not coming from WPS.

Callers posing as utility company employees are dialing up trouble for some customers.

"We've gotten a few calls from customers where somebody purporting to be from Public Service has called and demanded payment, otherwise they'd lose their electric or gas service," said WPS spokesperson Kerry Spees.

Spees said it's a problem that has spread across the country, and recently surfaced in our area a few months ago.

"Public Service would never call someone, even if they were way behind on their bill, and demand that they have to pay within the next hour," said Spees.

Spees said customers were told to purchase pre-paid debit cards and call back to make the payment. Or they were instructed to get together the cash for pickup.

WPS officials say to confirm suspicions the call is fake, you should stay on the line and listen, copy down any information the caller gives you, get a phone number if you can, and report it to WPS or police.

Spees also points out Wisconsin utilities cannot turn off power in the winter until the state's moratorium ends April 15th.

If you find yourself in legitimate trouble with your bill, don't despair.

There's help out there," said Jenny Hoffman with Brown County Human Services.

The Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program helps people who meet certain criteria avoid disconnection with crisis benefits.

"If there's some payment history show there and they're still up for disconnect we could look at assisting to avoid that disconnect," Hoffman said.

Hoffman said if people face losing service, they should be proactive and begin by applying for regular benefits now.

"Or contact us, and be proactive in letting us know where they're at with their utilities. Are they expecting a disconnect and work with us right now, rather than waiting until the last minute on April 15th," said Hoffman.

Spees said if there's ever any uncertainty about where you stand with your bill, call the utility.

If you need help paying your utility bills, click here.