Arizona Public Service (APS) is warning customers about utility scams as part of National Consumer Protection Week, which runs from March 1 to 7, 2026. The company urges customers to be alert for fraudulent activities and to recognize the signs before making payments or sharing personal information with anyone claiming to represent APS.
Scammers often create a sense of urgency by threatening immediate power shutoff unless payment is made quickly. They may reach out by phone, text, email, or in person, sometimes directing individuals to fake websites that mimic legitimate utility payment pages.
APS has outlined several warning signs for customers:
– Demands for immediate payment to avoid service disconnection.
– Requests for payment through gift cards, prepaid debit cards, cryptocurrency, or payment apps.
– Messages containing suspicious links or QR codes.
– Unexpected requests for personal or banking information.
– Individuals at the door claiming to be from APS who pressure customers for on-the-spot payments or ask to enter homes.
According to APS, “APS does not demand immediate payment using one specific method, and customers with past-due balances typically receive multiple notices before any disconnection for nonpayment.”
To help protect themselves, APS advises customers:
– “Slow down and verify. If you get a suspicious call, text, email, or visit, do not respond right away.”
– “Contact APS directly. If you are unsure whether a message is real, call APS at (602) 371-7171 (metro Phoenix) or (800) 253-9405 (other areas).”
– “Do not share personal information. Never give out banking details, credit card numbers or account information unless you are sure you are speaking with APS through an official channel.”
– “Do not click suspicious links. Avoid unexpected payment links, QR codes or websites that do not seem legitimate.”
– “Be cautious at your door. APS employees and contractors carry APS photo identification. Customers can always ask to see APS ID before continuing the conversation and can also call APS directly to confirm whether the person at their door is an APS employee.”
Customers who believe they have been targeted by scammers should contact the APS Customer Care Center at the provided numbers. Suspected scams can also be reported to local law enforcement and the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.
“National Consumer Protection week is a good reminder that a little caution can go a long way. By staying informed and taking a moment to verify, customers can better protect themselves and their families from fraud,” according to an APS statement.
More information is available at aps.com/scams. As noted on its official website, Arizona Public Service delivers electricity and related services such as power delivery support and customer billing assistance programs across its regulated service territory in Arizona. The company serves about 1.4 million customers in both rural and urban areas throughout much of the state.
APS also participates in Utilities United Against Scams alongside more than 150 other utilities committed to educating consumers about scams and providing resources for protection.
