Xcel Energy is reminding the public of a few tips to avoid phone scams over the holidays, the number one being to hang up immediately if you feel suspicious of the caller’s intent.

According to the company, most scammers impersonating Xcel and other utility companies call demanding payment in lieu of having the utility turned off.

David Hudson, president and CEO of Southwestern Public Service Company, said it is important to stay alert of anyone demanding immediate payment:

If you think that you are being targeted by a scammer, simply end the conversation and call us directly to verify your account status.”

Xcel reports that some scammers are able to display fake numbers, including some that appear to be an official Xcel line. They also report that two thirds of all reported scams were perpetrated against small restaurants during peak business hours.

To check the status of an account, business customers should contact the Xcel Business Solutions Center at 1-800-481-4700. Residential customers should call 1-800-895-4999.
More scam prevention information can be found at Xcel Energy’s website.

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