The Public Security Police once again warns of telephone scams involving individuals pretending to be employees of the Madeira Electricity Company (EEM).
According to the PSP, in a statement, five people were scammed last month. Those affected live in the municipalities of Porto Moniz, Calheta, and Santa Cruz.
To carry this type of deception, the individual contacts restaurant or bar owners during peak hours, stating that he is an EEM employee.
“On this occasion, it requests the payment of an alleged debt to the company, which has to be settled at that time, providing the reference entities 12543 and/or 50410. If they don’t make the payment, the scammer threatens the recipient that their power will be immediately cut off. Afraid of being cut off and losing business, people have paid the money they are said to owe.
The PSP leaves the following recommendations:
-Be wary of calls with an urgent or threatening tone;
– Fake employees say that if payment is not paid immediately, there will be service cuts, seizures, or lawsuits;
– Never give out personal details, bank details, or codes by phone;
– Always confirm the identity of the caller – request their employee number and check with the company before entering into any commitments.
– End the call and contact the entity directly through the contact number on invoices or institutional websites.
– Never make payments based on a single telephone call;
– Always request written documentation (email or letter);
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
