Utility Scam Reports Climb as National Consumer Protection Week Begins

Nearly 200 scam attempts reported to PPL Electric in first two months of 2026

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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As National Consumer Protection Week kicks off, utility provider PPL Electric is warning customers about a spike in utility scam attempts, with nearly 200 reported in just the first two months of 2026. Officials say scammers often try to rush customers into making immediate payments through gift cards or cryptocurrency, a tactic PPL says they never use.

Why it matters

Utility scams can be costly for consumers, with Americans losing billions to scams last year. This warning from PPL Electric comes at the start of National Consumer Protection Week, a nationwide effort to raise awareness and help customers identify the signs of potential scams.

The details

According to PPL Electric spokesperson Damon Turbitt, the utility has already received nearly 200 reports of scam attempts in just the first two months of 2026. Turbitt says scammers often try to rush customers into making immediate payments, sometimes demanding payment through gift cards or cryptocurrency - tactics that PPL Electric does not use.

  • In the first two months of 2026, PPL Electric has received nearly 200 reports of scam attempts.
  • National Consumer Protection Week began on March 4, 2026.

The players

PPL Electric Utilities

A utility provider serving customers in Pennsylvania.

Damon Turbitt

A spokesperson for PPL Electric Utilities.

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What they’re saying

“We always want to warn customers, if something seems off, hang up the phone and try giving us a call.”

— Damon Turbitt, Spokesperson (wfmz.com)

“They might demand payment from you through something like a gift card or cryptocurrency.”

— Damon Turbitt, Spokesperson (wfmz.com)

What’s next

PPL Electric plans to continue educating customers on the signs of utility scams throughout National Consumer Protection Week.

The takeaway

This spike in utility scam attempts highlights the importance for consumers to be vigilant and cautious when receiving unsolicited calls or messages demanding immediate payment, especially through unconventional methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency.