Scams seem to always be in the news. You may think to yourself, “I’d never fall for that”, but more and more, scammers are getting creative. That's why we want you to have information to help make sure you don't become a victim of a common telephone scam
Here's how the telephone scam typically works:
A caller identifies themselves as being from Avista, telling customers that their account is past due or there is a problem with their account. This can be a call you answer, a voicemail you receive, or even in the form of an email.
The caller uses high pressure tactics to tell you your power will be disconnected immediately if a payment is not made. You may be directed to transfer funds electronically, sometimes through money wiring systems or pre-paid cards, such as Green Dot Money Pak card.
Spoofing technology can show that the call is coming from Avista, so be alert to high pressure and aggressive tactics or if the call sounds suspicious. Also, be suspicious if a call demanding immediate payment on your account begins with an area code rather than 800, however, scammers can also use phone numbers beginning with 800.
Scammers can also easily lift our logo from online, and create emails that look like they are from Avista. If you click to make a payment, make sure the URL takes you to our official site: myavista.com.
What to do if you think you’re getting scammed
If you receive a call from someone claiming to be an Avista representative demanding immediate payment, using high pressure tactics, or asking for your confidential information, end the call without providing any information and note the phone number, then call us at (800) 227-9187. We work to disconnect the phone number of the scammer.
If you are ever suspicious about any call or communication, feel free to check in with us at (800) 227-9187. Our customer service representatives are available to verify if the contact is actually coming from Avista.