2 minute read
Springtime Brings Out Scammers
As spring blossoms, so do scams targeting unsuspecting homeowners. Just as the season brings birds, flowers and budding trees, it also attracts fraudsters posing as electric cooperative employees. Their goal?
To steal your money or personal information.
Protect yourself by recognizing these common tactics:
Unexpected Refund Offers
Scammers may call claiming you’ve overpaid your electric bill and request your bank account or credit card details to issue a refund. Remember, if you’ve paid your bill with a credit card or check, your utility already has this information and won’t ask for it again.
Unscheduled Home Visits
Fraudsters may show up at your door offering free services, like energy audits, to gain access to your home. If you didn’t request a visit or receive prior notice from your electric cooperative, the visitor is likely a scammer.
Pressure to Pay Immediately
Legitimate utility workers will never demand immediate payment or threaten to cut off your service unless you pay on the spot. Be cautious of anyone asking for money through wire transfer, cryptocurrency, gift cards or cash-reload cards—these are red flags for fraud.
How to Stay Safe
If someone contacts you or visits your home claiming to represent your electric cooperative:
Politely decline their request for payment or personal information.
Verify their identity by contacting your utility directly using the official contact information on your bill.
Report suspicious activity to your electric cooperative immediately.
By staying vigilant and reporting scams, you’re not only protecting yourself but also helping your community stay safe from fraud. Let’s stop scammers in their tracks this spring!
