Scam Targets Ameren Business Customers

A heads up on a potential scam being used against Ameren business customers, with several targets in Central Illinois reporting the attempted scheme.

Company officials say they were made aware of numerous attempts earlier this week of someone posing as an Ameren official asking for the customer to make a payment or face losing their service. Many of the reports have come from Belleville, Decatur, and Peoria. Ameren Spokesman Brian Bretsch says con men are calling Ameren customers and telling them their power is about to be shut off unless they go buy a pre-paid debit card and pay up.

Bretsch says he is unaware of anyone who fell for the scam. He reminds customers Ameren reps will never call you asking for immediate payment over the phone. If your bill is delinquent, they'll send out a notice in the mail. He says Ameren employees will work with you to set up a payment plan.

If you have any questions about your bill, call 1-800-755-5000.