Missouri Gas Energy Warns Customers of Phony Bill Scam
KANSAS CITY, MO (January 17, 2014) – During the coldest part of winter, scam artists are impersonating utility companies to defraud customers. Missouri Gas Energy (MGE) is warning customers of an email scam that could lead to identity theft.
Some customers are reporting receiving fake utility bills through email. The account statement appears to be from a utility provider other than MGE providing false account information with links for payment.
“Sadly, scammers try these techniques on natural gas customers during the cold winter months. If you are concerned about a suspicious email, phone call or any contact from someone claiming to be an MGE representative, call MGE immediately,” said Ron Crow, vice president, customer experience. “Our team is here to help.”
Tips for our customers:
- If you have any questions about your MGE bill, please contact our customer service line directly at 816-756-5252 or 800-582-1234.
- If you receive a call claiming to be MGE and you feel pressured or unsure if the person is a MGE employee, hang up and call our customer service line directly.
- Never provide your social security number, credit card, debit card or bank account information to anyone who calls, texts or sends an email requesting such information.
- All MGE field employees drive marked vehicles, wear MGE uniforms and carry an ID badge. On occasion, work being performed for MGE is done by contractors. However, they also have MGE identification in addition to their personal identification.
- If a customer is unsure if the person at their door is a MGE employee, we encourage them to call the MGE Customer Care team at 816-756-5252 or 800-582-1234 to verify if a service technician is on their premise.
- Customers can always call 911 to report fraudulent activity.
ABOUT MISSOURI GAS ENERGY
Missouri Gas Energy has provided natural gas service to the residents of the Kansas City metropolitan area and western Missouri for nearly 150 years. Now owned by Laclede Gas Company, a subsidiary of The Laclede Group, Inc. (NYSE:LG), we are part of the largest gas distribution company in Missouri, delivering natural gas to more than 1.13 million customers. Missouri Gas Energy serves residential, commercial and industrial customers in 30 counties. For more information, please visit www.MissouriGasEnergy.com.
