Evergy warns customers to use official channels for payments in light of potential scams

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Evergy is urging customers to be vigilant after seeing an increase in scams with false phone numbers.

Evergy officials said in a media release that scammers are targeting customers who use search engines and AI search to find how to contact Evergy. Customers who use search terms such as “pay Evergy,” “Evergy bill,” “Evergy electric” or similar search terms may be shown ads with fake websites and phone numbers, where a scammer is waiting on the other end to take their personal and credit card information.

These websites and advertisements are not from Evergy and costumers should not click on these links. If costumers see these scams they should report it through Evergy’s online scam reporting form.

Fake websites and advertisements are just one way that scammers attempt to get personal and financial information like credit card, debit card, Social Security, Evergy account and checking or savings account numbers. Here are some signs of common scams and ways consumers can protect themselves:

• Fake websites - Watch for fraudulent websites that look like Evergy’s. Always ensure you are paying your directly bill through the Evergy website at www.evergy.com.
• Fake caller ID displays - Never give out personal or financial information over the phone if you’re unsure who you are speaking to. You can verify account information online or by calling the Evergy Customer Contact Center (in the Evergy Metro and Evergy Missouri West area at 1-888-471-5275; in Evergy Kansas Central at 1-800-383-1183).
• Disconnection threats - Beware of threats that utility service will be disconnected in short time – like an hour – if you don’t provide immediate payment, especially during extremely hot or cold weather. Evergy will not shut off service without multiple notifications prior to disconnection.
• Gift cards and third-party payment apps - Evergy will never ask customers to pay via third-party payment apps like Cash App, Venmo, or Zelle. Evergy also won’t ask customers to pay with gift cards.
• In-person impersonators – Verify the person is with Evergy by asking to see company identification or by calling the Customer Contact Center before giving any personal information. Evergy workers will also be wearing Evergy-branded clothing and driving a clearly labeled company vehicle. Contractors working on behalf of Evergy should not ask for personal information. The only customer contact that Evergy contractors should have is a courtesy door-knock to alert customers they will be working on their property.
• Offering a discount – Scammers may claim that by giving them a credit card number or other form of payment they can give a discount on an electricity bill. As a regulated utility, Evergy can only offer approved prices and programs that are available on our website.