Tampa Electric has issued a warning to its customers about two new scams targeting people who are trying to pay their power bills. According to the company, some customers searching for Tampa Electric’s contact information online have been misled by sponsored ads created by scammers. These ads direct them to fake websites or phone numbers where they are asked for payment or personal financial details.
Another reported scam involves individuals posing as Tampa Electric representatives during times of widespread disruption, such as weather-related outages. The scammers call or text customers about power interruptions and demand immediate payment using cash cards or gift cards before promising to restore service. Several victims have lost thousands of dollars to these schemes.
“These ploys are consistent with a larger trend in the utility industry, and Tampa Electric has seen an abrupt increase in customers who have encountered these scams.”
Reports of scam attempts against Tampa Electric customers have increased significantly over the past 18 months. In 2024 alone, more than 400 customers reported scam attempts—exceeding the total from the previous two years combined, with projections indicating this number may rise further.
Common tactics include callers pretending to be Tampa Electric employees, threatening immediate power disconnection unless payment is made via prepaid cards or mobile apps, and offering fraudulent bill discounts in exchange for account information. Sometimes, caller ID displays the utility’s actual number—a technique known as spoofing—to make the ruse appear more credible.
Tampa Electric advises that it does not accept payments through mobile apps or cryptocurrency and never demands payment in person or asks for credit card, debit card, or gift card numbers over the phone. Customers are encouraged to check their account status only through official channels at TECOAccount.com or by calling the number listed on their bill.
“Know the status of your account. You can view your account through Tampa Electric’s secure online account portal, TecoAccount.com, or by calling the phone number listed on your bill or on our website, TampaElectric.com.”
The company also urges vigilance if someone visits claiming to be from Tampa Electric; all employees carry photo identification cards and will provide verification upon request. Suspected imposters should be reported immediately to law enforcement.
Tampa Electric is part of Utilities United Against Scams (UUAS), a collaborative effort among more than 150 utility companies across North America that works with regulators and law enforcement to prevent such frauds.
The company serves over 860,000 customers in West Central Florida and operates as a subsidiary of Emera Inc., which is based in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
