Utility Scam FAQs

Utility Scam FAQs

Entergy Arkansas maintains an online resource for helping to identify fraudulent calls at http:// entergy. com/ scams/.

Some frequently asked questions from the site include: 1. How does the utility phone scam work?

Phone scammers around the country pretend to be members of the local utility company. These con artists call customers, mostly businesses, and advise them that they have a past due bill that must be paid immediately or risk disconnection. Then the caller directs them to transfer funds electronically, sometimes through money wiring systems such as, “MoneyPak.”

Using sophisticated spoofing software, the criminals are able to replicate the local utility's telephone number on the receiver's caller ID box.

2. What should you do if you receive one of these calls?

Entergy NEVER demands immediate payment from customers. You shouldn't give your personal information to strangers. If a call sounds suspicious, call 1- 800-ENTERGY (1-800368-3749) to speak directly with an Entergy customer service representative. If you believe you're a victim

of this scam, you should notify the proper authorities, such as the local police

or the state attorney general's office.

3. How can I monitor and/or pay my Entergy bill?

You should only use authorized methods and legitimate banking information to pay your Entergy bill.

We offer several convenient

ways:

• Pay online – myAccount. For no additional charge, conveniently pay your bill online by electronic check.

Log in securely to myAccount to view and pay your bills.

• Pay by phone – Pay your bill by credit card, debit card or electronic check by calling 1-800-584-1241.

BillMatrix, our pay-byphone provider, will charge a $2.95 service fee. BILLMATRIX is the only authorized credit card vendor authorized to process these types of payments.

• Pay by credit/debit card Pay your bill with a credit card, debit card or electronic check by phone (1800-584-1241) or through the BillMatrix website, for a $2.95 service fee.

• Walk-in payment centers – Pay your bill in person with cash, check or money order at one of the authorized Quick Payment Centers in your community. A convenience fee may apply. Auto pay bank draft – Automatically deduct your bill payment from your checking account each month.

We'll mail a monthly billing statement to you for your records, showing the bill amount and bank draft date.

Pay by mail – Send check by U.S. Mail to the remittance address shown on your bill.

4. How can we protect our business from fraudulent claims?

Inform your employees and provide instructions for dealing with these calls.

The methods that the con artists are using continue to evolve making it difficult to track and stop. Your best defense is a good proactive offense.

5. What areas and/or businesses are affected by the scam?

Small businesses are currently the primary target, however over the years the scam has evolved and changed to target multiple segments of the general population.