Consumers Energy Sounds Alarm on New Utility Scam in Michigan

Scams have been on the rise here in the state of Michigan recently. From toll road scams, of which we have none here in the state of Michigan now, Consumers Energy warns of a new scam targeting Michigan residents.

Consumers Energy is warning Michiganders to stay alert after a surge of phone and email scams targeting their customers.

The scammers are impersonating the utility provider and are giving off spoof numbers while threatening to shut down services unless immediate payment is made. The scammers are specifically demanding payment via prepaid debit or gift card methods.

Consumers Energy confirms that they do not use or require those methods for bill payment.

"Most people already avoid handing over money or personal info to strangers," Jim Beechey, the vice president of information technology and security, said. "...these criminals are relentless and skilled at deception."

If you think that you have fallen for this scam, and paid or shared personal information, you are urged to contact Consumers Energy immediately at 800-477-5050. They'll take the details and help report the incident. If no payment was made, you should contact the local authorities.

How You Can Protect Yourself

• Consumers Energy will never ask for payment via prepaid debit cards or gift cards, only trusted and secure methods.
• They won't request credit card information over the phone either; instead, you'll be connected to a secure system, which is managed by the company.
• If you're contacted by someone who is claiming to be from Consumers Energy, hang up and reach out to their direct number: 800-477-5050.