Rochester Public Utilities Warns Customers of Scam Calls Impersonating RPU

Media Contact
Tom Jorgenson, Communications Coordinator
Direct: 507.280.1634 | E-mail: rpucommunications@rpu.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rochester Public Utilities Warns Customers of Scam Calls Impersonating RPU

Rochester, Minn. (Thursday, Feb. 12) — Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) is alerting customers about fraudulent phone calls that falsely appear to come from an RPU phone number.

Customers have reported receiving calls from individuals claiming their RPU account is past due and that service will be disconnected within unless immediate payment is made. Callers create a sense of urgency and instruct customers to call an 866 number to submit payment.

When customers call the provided number, they hear an automated recording falsely identifying as an RPU system. If prompted to select a payment option, the call is transferred to an individual who falsely claims to be an RPU employee and attempts to collect payment information.

RPU confirms these calls are a scam.

RPU does not demand immediate payment over the phone to avoid disconnection, nor does the utility direct customers to call an 866 number to make payments. RPU does not use high-pressure tactics or urgent threats when communicating with customers about their accounts.

Customers who receive a suspicious call should:

• Not provide personal or payment information

• Hang up immediately

• Contact RPU directly at 507-280-1500 to verify account status

• Visit the RPU Service Center at 4000 East River Road NE, Rochester, MN 55906 if needed

If something feels suspicious, customers are encouraged to trust their instincts and contact RPU directly using official contact information.

RPU is actively monitoring the situation and encourages customers to share this information with family members and neighbors to help protect the community.

About Rochester Public Utilities
As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for over 120 years, RPU has provided high-quality and reliable electricity to more than 59,000 customers, along with water services to over 42,000 customers. RPU is governed by a five-member Utility Board and the Rochester City Council. The utility continually explores innovative technologies to help customers maximize the value of the services they receive, with current initiatives including photovoltaic offerings, wind energy, energy and water-efficient equipment, and electric vehicle charging.