APS officials want to make sure their customers in Yavapai County do not fall victim to scammers in the wake of reports of imposters claiming to be from the utility. They add scammers often create a sense of urgency, claiming power will be shut off unless immediate payment is made. Customers may be contacted by phone, text, email, or even in person. Some are directed to fake websites that appear to be legitimate payment pages.
APS officials say red flags include demands for immediate payment, requests for gift cards, pre-paid debit cards or cryptocurrency, and unexpected requests for personal or banking information. They note APS does not demand payment through one specific method and typically provides multiple notices before disconnection.
The warning comes as part of National Consumer Protection Week.