From staff reports OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond and OG&E have partnered up to combat scams involving solar energy equipment and services.
“Fraudsters are always finding new ways to separate unsuspecting individuals from their money, and this latest phone scam is no exception,” Drummond said. “Oklahomans should be cautious with high-pressure tactics in phone or door-to-door solicitations, even when they purport to be connected to a reputable company. Always verify.”
Customers alerted OG&E to a recent increase in automated phone calls. One call impersonated an OG&E representative, claiming to offer thousands of dollars in rebates under a new energy policy. Another claiming to be OG&E threatens to cut off the customers’ service unless they make an immediate payment. Customers have also reported to OG&E an increase in impersonators claiming to sell solar equipment.
“We never call our customers and ask them to pay their bills, nor do we go door to door to enroll them in special programs or services,” said Aaron Cooper, manager of corporate communications. “Despite any claims, OG&E does not have any solar panel installation partners, nor do we recommend or partner with any company selling solar generation equipment.
“We understand the frustrations and impact of scams, and we want our customers to be aware and protect themselves from falling victim to the latest scam. We appreciate the Attorney General and his team for their work to protect Oklahomans from these types of scams.”
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a phone scam should contact the Office of the Oklahoma Attorney General at consumerprotection@ oag.ok.gov or (833) 681-1895.