Scammers Continue to Target Utility Customers
Thursday, October 12, 2023
Don’t get scammed, get smart!
We have received several recent reports of phone calls appearing to come from Medford Water, wherein the caller claims to be part of a public service and asks personal questions.
Scammers are on the prowl, using tactics that are becoming increasingly convincing and can duplicate or ‘spoof’ our logo and contact information. Here are some red flags:
- A caller may or may not identify themselves as being from Medford Water, asking personal questions such as your spouse's name, and if you have pets. In some scams, the caller warns customers that their account is past due or that there is a problem with their account and an immediate payment is needed. The caller uses high pressure tactics to tell you your water will be disconnected immediately if a payment is not made. You may be directed to transfer funds electronically, sometimes through money wiring systems or pre-paid cards.
Spoofing technology can show that a phone call is coming from Medford Water, so be alert to aggressive phone tactics. If you are unsure, ask to call the person back, dialing our office number directly at (541) 774-2430.
- Be alert to anyone who shows up at your home and uses high pressure tactics to demand immediate payment to avoid having your service disconnected. Scammers can try to appear legitimate by carrying a walkie-talkie and wearing an orange vest. Medford Water employees and our authorized contractors, all carry a Medford Water photo ID badge. You can call us at (541) 774-2430 to verify any person’s identity.
- Scammers can easily spoof our logo and create emails that look like they are from Medford Water. If you do not recognize the sender's email address, do not open an unfamiliar email as it may include malicious links that go to a compromised website hosting malware. Do not respond to the request, click on any links, open any attachments, or provide any personal information.
If something sounds odd, it probably is. Call us at (541) 774-2430 to get answers to any questions you may have, or visit services.medfordwater.org anytime to verify the status of your account.
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