Federal Trade Commission data shows that consumers reported losing more than $10 billion to fraud in 2023. This marks a 14% increase over reported losses in 2022.

Consumers reported losing more money to investment scams-more than $4.6 billion- than any other category in 2023. The second highest reported loss amount came from imposter scams, with losses of nearly $2.7 billion reported. Digital tools are making it easier than ever to target hard-working Americans.

At Atmos Energy, we know the most effective method to combat fraud is through education. In honor of Fraud Prevention Month and Consumer Protection Week, efforts will be focused on educating the public about consumer rights and providing information on how to safeguard against fraud and scams.

Atmos Energy prioritizes the safety and welfare of its customers. The following measures are recommended to keep your financial welfare and identity safe:

• Never disclose your Social Security number, bank details, or passwords, unless necessary.
• Exercise caution when providing personal information over the phone, email, or online, particularly if you did not initiate the contact.
• Utilize strong, unique passwords for each online account.
• Shred documents containing sensitive information, such as bank statements, credit card offers, and medical records before discarding them.

Atmos Energy will never send lone notification to customers within an hour of a service disconnection and will never request payments via prepaid debit cards, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or third-party mobile payment apps. If customers receive a suspicious email, call, text, or in-person visit, they should keep the following tips in mind:

• Slow down. Scammers generally try to rush customers and will ask for personal information and immediate payment.
• Verify. Scammers often pose as utility company employees. Always ask for an employee’s identification badge, which displays name, photograph, and Atmos Energy logo. If you suspect an imposter, call the Atmos Energy customer service number at 888.286.6700 immediately to verify the employees’ identity and contact local authorities.
• Stop before you act. Think about the information the caller or potential scammer is asking of you. If it seems unsafe or incorrect, rethink the situation and ask questions.

Additionally, Atmos Energy partners with Utilities United Against Scams, local first responders, and city staff to educate the public about ways to identify, avoid, and report scams.

Atmos Energy’s partnership with police and fire departments goes beyond construction notifications and scam awareness information. Through our Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities initiative, we are focused on supporting our hometown heroes and their efforts to care for the communities we serve.

 

For more information and tips to protect against impostor utility scams:

• Visit Atmos Energy’s website at https://www.atmosenergy.com/customer-service/beware-utility-scams.
• Visit the FTC’s website at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/.
• Follow FTC on Facebook and Twitter for quick, shareable consumer tips all week long.
• Visit the UUAS website at www.utilitiesunited.org.
• Follow UUAS on X and Facebook, and join the conversation by using #StopScams.