La Plata Electric Association is again warning its 30,000-plus customers to beware of a phone scam claiming customers owe delinquent payments.

The latest fraud involves a caller threatening to cancel LPEA members’ electricity service for failing to pay bills.

Fraudulent callers claiming to be LPEA representatives are an annual occurrence. In the past, they have targeted hotels and businesses in addition to private residences, and tried to dupe customers via email.

“Every time we turn around, there’s a new twist,” LPEA Chief Operating Officer Steve Gregg said in a news release. “Today’s effort involves a threat that the business must pay $500 to the so-called ‘meter man’ who will arrive on site within the hour, otherwise, the electricity will be shut off because they’re claiming the account is delinquent.”

If the caller claims the meter man intends to install a new “GPS meter,” LPEA members should take that as a red flag because such a thing does not exist. The scammers are also giving out fraudulent 800 phone numbers, false new work orders and meter numbers.

LPEA provides customers with outstanding bills multiple notices and ample time to make payments before discontinuing service.

Members who receive questionable phone calls or emails from supposed LPEA representatives should call LPEA customer service at (970) 247-5786 or (888) 839-5732 for clarification.

If the call is clearly illicit, the customer should also notify local law enforcement.

jpace@durangoherald.com