Nashville Scam Alert — What's Targeting Middle Tennessee Families This Month

Nashville's rapid growth has made it a prime target for scammers — more new residents, more people unfamiliar with local utilities and services, and a booming job market that makes fake job offers more believable.

NES (Nashville Electric Service) impersonation

Nashville Electric Service is one of the most impersonated utilities in Middle Tennessee. Scammers call NES customers claiming an overdue balance will result in disconnection within the hour. They demand payment via Zelle, Cash App, or prepaid Visa cards available at CVS or Walgreens.

NES never demands immediate payment by prepaid card or money transfer app. Call NES directly at 615-736-6900 to verify any bill concerns.

Real estate and rental scams

Nashville's tight rental market has spawned a wave of fake rental listings. Scammers post real photos of Nashville properties on Facebook Marketplace and Zillow at below-market rents. They ask for a security deposit before you've seen the property — then disappear. Always view a property in person and verify the landlord's identity before sending any money.

Crypto investment scams

Nashville's growing tech and finance community has been targeted by sophisticated cryptocurrency investment scams. Victims are contacted through LinkedIn or dating apps by someone who casually mentions their success with a specific investment platform. These scams average $70,000 in losses per victim.

Written by Garland A. Hurt, Founder & Information Security Officer, ProtectMyCircle — West TN.