📱 Scam Tactic: Malicious “Outage Map” Links
When outages happen, curiosity spikes — and so does the risk of clicking unsafe links. Scammers are sending emails and text messages that appear to be outage maps or service updates but really lead to phishing sites designed to steal passwords and personal information.
Authorities, including the Tennessee Valley Authority, warn that texts or emails claiming to be from TVA or local utilities about scheduled or rolling blackouts are not legitimate. Clicking links in these messages can expose you to malware or credential theft.
🛡️ Safety Tips for “Outage Info”
Only check outage maps at official utility sites (e.g., NESPower.com, TVA.gov).
Follow legitimate sources on social media. Many businesses will include social media links on their website - use these instead of trusting just what’s in your feed.
Do not click links in unsolicited emails or texts about outages.
If you’re unsure whether a message is real, call your provider directly using a number from their official website.
Remember: legitimate utilities will not ask for personal info or passwords via text or email.
If you want help setting alerts for scam trends or building a custom checklist for your household or team, I’m here to help.
Before you fall victim of a scammer, use my Top 10 Online Scams information to help keep you safe. It’s quick, clear, and gives you the confidence you need to see through email scams.
Know someone who’d appreciate this information? Forward this newsletter and help us grow everyone’s digital confidence!
❄️ General Safety Reminder During Winter Recovery
Winter Storm Fern’s conditions remain severe across Tennessee, with sub-zero wind chills and dangerous ice reported throughout Middle Tennessee.
Keep Yourself Safe:
Stay away from downed power lines - assume they’re live.
Use official outage reporting tools like NES’s outage map or text-to-report.
Share warming center info with neighbors if you are safe and able.
Charge phones and keep backup power sources ready.
🛡️ Stay Secure, Powered Up, and Scam-Aware
Storm conditions make life harder, and that’s exactly when scammers try to take advantage. Being aware of their tactics, relying on official sources for updates, and slowing down before clicking or signing anything are your best defenses.
Stay safe, stay warm, and let’s look out for one another. ❄️
🎆 The Good News
He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.
Psalms 107:29
Be safe,
