FPL shares tips to avoid utility scams

For the second year in a row, Florida leads the nation in fraud reports, with more than 1,200 scams per 100,000 residents, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Florida Power and Light Co. (FPL) is warning customers about utility scams and sharing steps to help keep customers from being targeted.

Imposter scams are the most frequently reported type of fraud in Florida, according to FTC data, with nearly 50,000 cases of imposter scams between January and September 2025.   

What are utility imposter scams?

Utility imposter scams occur when scammers impersonate trusted companies and demand payment from customers. Scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, including:  

• Manipulating internet search results to display fake websites or phone numbers. 

• Posing as utility representatives seeking sensitive personal or financial information from customers who call these numbers unknowingly. 

• Targeting customers by phone, text, email or even door-to-door, falsely claiming to be an FPL employee.

How can FPL customers protect themselves from utility scams?

FPL urges customers to stay alert and follow these tips to avoid scams:  

• Contact FPL directly. Call the number on your bill or 800-697-5223 instead of searching online where scammers' numbers may appear. 

• Don’t rely on caller ID. Scammers can manipulate the name to appear to be FPL. 

• Be cautious of urgent or odd payment requests. FPL will never demand immediate payment, ask customers to pay through Zelle or gift card, or threaten immediate disconnection.

• Trust your instincts. If something feels off, hang up and contact FPL directly. 

• Delete suspicious texts or emails asking for payment. 

• Verify representatives at your door. Shut the door and call the police if a visitor without FPL identification tries to collect payment or aggressively sell products.  

• Spread scam awareness. Talk to loved ones about common scam tactics to keep them from becoming victims.  

What should customers do if they suspect a scam?

Customers who suspect they have been targeted by a scam should immediately report it to FPL and local law enforcement. In case of phone or digital scams, customers should also file a complaint with both the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Florida’s state consumer protection agency.   

How is FPL mitigating scam activity?

FPL follows a well-established set of processes to ensure customer information remains secure and confidential.

• FPL works closely with local and state law enforcement agencies to investigate reported scams. 

• Customer reports help FPL and local law enforcement identify fraud trends and can lead to investigations and arrests. 

• As a member of Utilities Against Scams, FPL is committed to educating and spreading awareness across the industry on new trends and tactics.  

“Imposter scams are designed to create urgency and fear, often pressuring victims to act before verifying a payment request,” said Francine Freitas, FPL spokesperson. “We encourage customers to verify any suspicious communications through our official channels and report suspected scams to our team and local law enforcement immediately.”

To stay informed on the latest scams and to report any fraudulent activity, go to www.FPL.com/protect.