Chelan PUD warns customers of summer scam attempts

WENATCHEE – As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, Chelan County Public Utility District urges customers to stay alert for scam and fraud attempts, which often increase during busy travel weekends when people are distracted or traveling.

Chelan PUD has received recent reports of scammers falsely claiming to represent the utility. Officials advise customers to hang up on anyone demanding immediate payment or asking for credit card information and to monitor bank accounts for suspicious activity.

Customers have reported two types of scam attempts in recent weeks. One involves unauthorized bank account transactions labeled “Chelan County PU.” Chelan PUD emphasized that it does not withdraw funds from bank accounts without an associated utility bill, and the reported transactions from “Chelan County PU” are not connected to the utility’s billing systems. Customers who notice suspicious transactions labeled “Chelan County PU” should contact their bank immediately.

Chelan PUD has also received reports of scam phone calls from individuals claiming there is a problem with a customer’s autopay account. During these calls, scammers ask customers to provide credit card information over the phone to “verify” payment information. Chelan PUD does not demand immediate payment or request credit card information over the phone.

Customers who receive a suspicious call should hang up and call Chelan PUD directly at (509) 661-8002. Customer service representatives are available by phone from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, excluding holidays. Customers can also view bills and payment options anytime at www.chelanpud.org/bill.