EPCG warns of fake e-mails promising refunds for “double billing” of electricity

Elektroprivreda Crne Gore (EPCG), Montenegro's main electricity supplier, warned on 3 November that fake e-mails are circulating in which, through unauthorised use of the company's name, recipients are offered supposed refunds for “double billing”. The warning was carried by the MINA agency, the CdM portal and RTNK.

What the company says. EPCG states that it is not the sender of these messages and does not ask customers to confirm personal and bank details in this way. “This is an attempted internet fraud (phishing), so we urge citizens not to open links contained in suspicious messages, not to submit their data and not to follow the instructions given,” the statement said. The company asks customers to check any information about their bills and possible refunds exclusively through its official communication channels.

The figures. According to EPCG data quoted by MINA on 1 November, the company had 465,150 customers at the end of September, of which 417,180 were households. Total household and business debts for electricity stood at 171.9 million euros, 0.81% more than a year earlier: households owed 108.5 million and businesses 63.4 million.

Context. EPCG attributed the rise in debt to record bills during the winter and summer seasons, about 20% above the usual level, but says its collection rate remains stable at around 100%. Asked about a possible electricity price increase from 1 January, the company replied that the decision requires further analysis and consultation with the relevant institutions.

What comes next. EPCG says that if prices change, consumers will be informed in a timely and transparent manner, in line with the applicable procedures. Until then, the company asks customers not to act on messages promising refunds outside its official channels.

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