Ameren is alerting its customers to have a heightened awareness of a new utility scam that is currently targeting seniors in Illinois and Missouri. Customers are contacted primarily on the phone by scammers offering a special discounted rate of $29.99, which is sometimes called a "senior discount." The scammers pose as Ameren representatives, often suggesting a special rate in lieu of paying a customer's full monthly statement amount.
Ameren Missouri is upgrading electric meters to new smart meters to benefit all customers as part of the company’s Smart Energy Plan, and scammers are trying to take advantage of this. Recently, Ameren Missouri has seen an increase in the number of customers reporting a scam call asking for a deposit or payment ahead of a smart meter installation. The thieves may even falsely claim that the existing meter is not safe.
If a customer receives a suspected scam call, they should hang up immediately and call Ameren Missouri at 1.800.552.7583 or Ameren Illinois at 1.800.755.5000 to report it. Ameren is also encouraging family and friends that have seniors in their lives to share the information in an effort to protect them if they do receive a call.
Impersonating Ameren representatives (over the phone and in-person), targeting vulnerable demographics such as senior citizens and non-native English-speaking persons or those searching for employment.
Threatening to disconnect utility service if payment is not received within an hour or two. Often they state a utility service person is on the way to shut off the power.
Requesting immediate payment via pre-paid money card, credit card, or bank account information.
Ameren has joined nearly 100 utilities nationwide to raise awareness of scam tactics and educate customers before they become victims. In coordination with this effort, the third Wednesday in November has been designated as Utilities United Against Scams Day.
Follow us on social media to receive the latest updates on scams.