KUA Launches Text Message Program to Alert Customers About Scams

Kissimmee Utility Authority announced today that customers can now opt-in to a new text-based scam alert system by texting SCAMALERT to 877-582-7700. The phone number from which the customer sends the text message must be registered to their KUA account.

The new feature sends users text message alerts about active utility scams targeting KUA customers in real-time. When KUA receives information about a local scam targeting customers, the utility will proactively send a text to those customers who have opted into the program. The text informs the customer that an active scam is occurring and directs them to visit kua.com/scamalert to learn more about the scam.

The kua.com/scamalert webpage then gives customers access to specific details about the current scam, such as the date it was reported, the scammer’s claim, the scammer’s instructions, and any associated images or screenshots that may be related to that specific scam. Additionally, customers can also use kua.com/scamalert to report a scam and view past scams.

“KUA is taking every possible measure to ensure that we are protecting our customers from scammers and their constantly evolving tactics,” said KUA President & General Manager Brian Horton. “We are hopeful that this new scam alert program will provide an additional layer of support to our customers, as a supplement to our ongoing education efforts about scam awareness.”  

KUA continues to educate customers about scam awareness via in-person workshops and external communication via radio, newspaper, and social media.

KUA reminds customers of some common signs of a scam:

• The impostor utility representative aggressively tells the customer their account is past due and service will be disconnected if a large payment is not made.
• The caller instructs the customer to quickly purchase a prepaid debit card-widely available at retail stores or asks them to pay immediately via Zelle, CashApp, or another mobile payment app.
• The caller asks the customer for the prepaid debit card’s number, which grants the caller instant access to the card’s funds.
• When in doubt, hang up and call KUA directly at 407-777-9800, for any questions regarding your account.