In an era of advanced communication and technology, being vigilant against fraud is more crucial than ever. At Hydro Ottawa, your safety and security are our priority. We're not just here to provide electricity; we're committed to equipping you with the knowledge necessary to identify and thwart potential scams related to your account.
Fraudulent activities have evolved into sophisticated and elaborate schemes. As technology advances, so do the tactics employed by scammers. Artificial intelligence (AI), a transformative force in various sectors, is now influencing the fraud landscape. Scammers leverage AI to create highly sophisticated and convincing messages, mimicking official communications with unprecedented accuracy.
This intersection of technology and deception makes it increasingly challenging to distinguish between authentic communications and scam activities. All of us need to be more vigilant.
Scammers exploit various channels, from traditional phone calls (a medium now susceptible to voice cloning), to modern text messages and even in-person visits, all aimed at deceiving customers. Recognizing the signs and understanding how Hydro Ottawa communicates with you are your first lines of defense.
With the launch of our new Outage Alerts on December 15, 2023, please note that legitimate SMS/text alerts come from PWROUT (797688), and valid outage-related emails are sent from [email protected].
Here’s what to look for when it comes to possible scams about your hydro account:
- Offers of refunds for overpayment or entitlements to rewards
- Immediate disconnection threats, especially during Ontario's Winter disconnection ban
- Demands for immediate payment
- Demands for payment by bitcoin or any digital currency
- Requests to meet Hydro Ottawa personnel at random locations to receive payment
- Texts or emails with suspicious links
- Typos or out of place punctuation
- Blurry logos
- 1-800 numbers (Hydro Ottawa does not have one)
How to know if a communication is from Hydro Ottawa
If you find yourself on the receiving end of a message that sets off your internal alarm bells, here's a strategic course of action to safeguard your security. First and foremost, resist the urge to click any links or dial the numbers provided, as these could be gateways to potential scams. Maintain the safety of your personal information; refrain from sharing sensitive details such as credit card numbers, account information, or your address. Instead, take a proactive step by contacting Hydro Ottawa directly at 613-738-6400 to authenticate the legitimacy of the message. Your peace of mind is paramount, and our team is here to assist you in navigating the intricacies of digital communication securely.
Beyond the digital realm, should you find a “Hydro Ottawa representative” at your doorstep, rest assured they always carry corporate identification and will arrive in an official Hydro Ottawa vehicle with all the appropriate Hydro Ottawa branding. When in doubt, ask to see identification, including a business and ID card with the person's name and company.
How to secure your accounts, devices and connections
Your online accounts, devices and connections are the gateways to your personal information. Learning how to secure them is essential in keeping fraudsters at bay. Here are some important strategies to consider:
Securing your accounts:
- Passphrases, passwords, and PINs: Use strong and unique passphrases or passwords for each account, avoiding reuse to minimize risk.
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Enable MFA for added security; it requires a password plus a second verification method, like a text code. (See below for instructions on activating two-factor verification for your Hydro Ottawa account).
- Password managers: Utilize password managers to securely store and generate strong passwords.
- Social media: Be mindful of personal information shared online. Regularly update your privacy settings and be wary of unknown friend requests or suspicious links.
Securing your devices:
- Use antivirus software: Install reputable antivirus software to detect and remove malware and other threats.
- Update software regularly: Keep your operating system, applications, and antivirus software updated to protect against vulnerabilities.
Secure your connections:
- Secure your Wi-Fi network: Change the default username and password for your Wi-Fi router, and avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions
- Consider using a virtual private network (VPN): A VPN that adds a layer of encryption to further protect your data when using public networks
- Enable firewall protection: A firewall acts as a barrier between your device and potential threats from the internet. Ensure that your device's firewall is enabled to monitor incoming and outgoing traffic, and block any suspicious activity
How to turn on two-factor verification for MyAccount
To enhance the security of your Hydro Ottawa account and protect against digital fraud, setting up two-factor verification is a simple and effective way to add an extra layer of protection. Follow these steps:
- Log in to your MyAccount profile.
- In the top navigation bar, click the "Account" icon.
- Select the “Manage Profile” tab, then click "Login Details."
- Toggle ON the "Multi-Factor Authentication" option.
- Enter the mobile phone number where you'd like to receive your verification code.
- Click “Update”
The next time you sign into MyAccount, you will be sent a six digit verification code in order to login.
Reporting Fraud
If you suspect a scam, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online. Additionally, contact the Ottawa Police Service at 613-236-1222 ext. 5433.
Related Links
Hydro Ottawa - Fraud Awareness webpage
Government of Canada - Get Cyber Safe