OPPD says reports of phone scams have spiked in recent days as crews work to restore power and repair damages following last Friday's storm.
Customers have been receiving calls claiming to be affiliated with Omaha Public Power District and demanding money for alleged meter repairs or replacements and/or alleged overdue power bills, according to a press release issued by Omaha Public Power District.
"None of these people demanding payments or financial information works for the utility," the OPPD release states.
OPPD has received nearly 30 reports of scam calls in the aftermath of Friday's storm, which left as many as 76,500 without power, according to the release. OPPD officials noticed a similar uptick in complaints following widespread outages that occurred earlier this year, in January and May.
"Thieves may be monitoring news coverage and trying to take advantage of the situation," the release states.
OPPD said customers receiving such calls should:
- Never give person or financial information to an unsolicited phone call.
- Never allow a stranger showing up on their premises entry to their home.
- Never turn off security systems for any reason at the request of a stranger, and contact law enforcement immediately if ever asked to do so.
Customers with questions about making a payment or anything else regarding their OPPD account, is advised to contact OPPD directly:
- Omaha residents can reach OPPD at 402-536-4131.
- After hours or for residents outside of Omaha, please call 1-877-536-4131.
