
September 8, 2022 – Ameren Illinois continues to warn its customers about scammers that reach out over the phone asking for money and more.
A scam call usually sounds like this – “Hi, this is Bill from Ameren Illinois. I’m calling to let you know that your electric bill is past due. We need payment of 700 dollars immediately or your power or natural gas will be shut off,” or “Our records indicate that the bill is past due. Our serviceman is en route to disconnect you unless you make immediate payment.”
Scammers will often request payment to be made with a Pre-Paid Money Card, or with an app on your mobile phone. This is a red flag. Ameren works with customers and does not ask for payment in this manner.
A lot of scammers have used Zelle to receive money. If you have something to report in regards to Zelle, please click here.
It is very important to accurately record the number that scammers are using. This is the most effective tool at this time to stop other scam victims from losing money. The earlier that Ameren can block a scam callback number, the more they can protect their customers from losing money to criminals.
Ameren’s Corporate Security team continues to monitor the numbers that the customers are asked to call back on (to pay) so this number can be disconnected, especially the 800 numbers. Callback numbers that are not 800 can also be disconnected, though they present more of a challenge.
Never give your credit card, debit card, social security, ATM, checking or saving account numbers to anyone who calls, sends a text message or email, or comes to your home requesting this information. Don’t trust anyone asking for immediate payment. If you suspect someone is impersonating an Ameren Illinois employee, end the conversation and immediately call Ameren Illinois at 1.800.755.5000. Never purchase a prepaid card or download a cash app to avoid service disconnection or shutoff. Legitimate utility companies do not specify how customers should make a bill payment and always offer a variety of ways to pay a bill. Ameren Illinois customers can make payments online, by phone, electronic check, by mail or at in-person pay locations.
For more information, click here.