NorthWestern Energy Issues New Alert about Collection Scams; Missoula, Billings are Latest Targets

NorthWestern Energy is again warning customers about a scam involving collection on allegedly overdue utility bills. Lodging establishments are the most recent targets of the ongoing scam activity reported in Missoula, Billings and likely other communities.

One Missoula lodging establishment reported paying the scammers $3,000 in the last few days. At least a half-dozen lodging businesses have reported receiving suspicious collection calls in the same period.

The phone callers typically seek immediate payment of "overdue" utility bills, often demanding credit-card numbers or other form of payment that can be quickly converted to cash. In recent incidents, callers have asked for prepaid debit cards issued by retailers, payment via PayPal or other form of payment that prevents recovery of money by scam victims.

NorthWestern reminds customers to be vigilant when it comes to anyone seeking payment information on utility bills, either in person or via the telephone or Internet. The phone callers can be convincing. They might use "spoofing" software that lets them falsely display the name and phone number of the utility company on the recipient’s Caller ID.

NorthWestern will provide several past-due notices before terminating service. If you get a cancellation notification, always verify it by dialing the customer service number on your utility bill. Don’t supply any personal information unless you are sure you are indeed working with the utility. NorthWestern never asks customers to use a prepaid debit card for payment.

Customers with questions or concerns about potential scams should contact NorthWestern Energy to report possible scams or questionable or business offers. Montana customers can contact NorthWestern at (888) 467-2669. In Nebraska and South Dakota, customers should call (800) 245-6977.

About NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE)

NorthWestern Energy provides electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 678,200 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the company’s website at http://www.northwesternenergy.com.