Statewide Efforts Warns Minnesotans of Utility Scams

Undated (KROC-AM News)- Law enforcement agencies across Minnesota took to social media to raise awareness about utility scams. 

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It was an effort coordinated by Minnesota Energy Resources. 

The natural gas provider said they’ve partnered with law enforcement to flood social media with information to protect Minnesotans from utility scams. 

The warning does not mention a specific scam, however officials say there are certain red flags to watch out for. They say scammers will: 

• Pretend to be from Minnesota Energy Resources by spoofing caller ID to display “Minnesota Energy Resources” or using a recording that sounds authentic.

• Threaten to turn off your energy in a short amount of time.

• Demand immediate payment — often with a prepaid debit card, third-party digital payment app like Zelle or Venmo, or an unusual payment method such as cryptocurrency.

• Buy sponsored posts on search engines with Minnesota Energy Resources’ name. Be careful — scammers use these to get you to call a fake phone number and share sensitive information with them.

Officials say to call Minnesota Energy Resources at 800-889-9508 for questions about any calls, emails or text messages regarding utilities. Scam victims are told to contact their local law enforcement.

Minnesota’s cold weather took effect on October 1 and is set to expire on April 30. Under the rule utility providers cannot cut off electric or natural gas services for customers behind on their bills.