Have you received unprecedented spam calls or emails recently, some claiming to be your utility company seeking past due payment? Utility companies will not call you seeking immediate payment! This week, the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) is sharing scam awareness and protection tips during National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), March 5-11, 2023.
“The PSC’s outreach team is always busy, but NCPW’s national consumer protection message steps up our efforts during this week,” said PSC Chairman Andrew Fay. “As a Federal Trade Commission initiative, it’s important to participate along with other state and federal agencies to share educational information to help consumers.”
For the 25th Annual NCPW, the Commission will collaborate with senior and community centers in Bay, Duval, Pasco, and Leon Counties to host in-person and virtual events. PSC information will be discussed, delivered, and distributed to consumers at the events. Consumers will be reminded that information is a powerful tool to help protect them when making choices that affect their bottom line.
The PSC strives to keep consumers informed through:
Awareness/Education
The PSC coordinates information outreach to promote energy efficiency, water conservation, and scam prevention education with community agencies and senior centers. We also provide information on Lifeline Assistance, a federal program to make telecommunications/broadband services more affordable for low-income households.
Free Resources
The PSC’s website provides information on hurricane preparedness, state social service agencies, and even a children’s conservation activity book. PSC educational brochures may be accessed and printed directly from the website, ordered free online, or requested by mail or phone (1-800-342-3552). Consumers can also learn about docketed or emerging utility issues by visiting www.floridapsc.com.
Hearings, Meetings, and Workshops
Consumers can learn about the PSC and its proceedings by attending a virtual hearing, meeting, or workshop online. Public virtual customer meetings provide an inclusive process, allowing consumers to share their views with Commissioners. The PSC also live streams all its meetings.
The PSC’s consumer analysts are available Monday-Friday at 1-800-342-3552 to assist consumers with possible scams, utility bills, or other utility matters. Consumers can also email the PSC at [email protected].
To learn more about NCPW, visit the official 2023 NCPW website.
View the Commission’s Consumer Tip video on How to Spot a Scam here.
For additional information, visit www.floridapsc.com.
