Beware of Energy Scams: Protect Yourself and Your Wallet

As an electric distribution cooperative dedicated to serving our community, your safety and security are our top priorities. Unfortunately, scammers often target utility customers with deceptive tactics designed to steal your money and personal information. To help you stay vigilant, we’ve compiled some new insights to outline common types of energy scams and how to protect yourself.

Common Types of Energy Scams

1. High-Pressure Tactics Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making quick decisions. They might claim that your power will be disconnected immediately if you don’t make an instant payment. Whether this is done in person, by phone, text, or email, their goal is to scare you into immediate payment. If this happens over the phone, hang up. If you’re concerned about your bill, call us at 800.474.6300.
2. Sketchy Payment Methods Be cautious if someone asks you to pay your energy bill using unusual methods such as gift cards or cryptocurrency. Scammers prefer these methods because they are hard to trace. Our cooperative will never ask for payment through these channels. If the scam is by email or text, delete it before taking any action. If you’re unsure, you can always contact us by calling or using SmartHub to check the status of your account.
3. Dodgy Communication Pay close attention to the communication you receive. Utility scams often include emails, text messages, or letters with poor grammar, spelling errors, or unusual email addresses. If something looks off, it probably is. Some scammers may falsely claim you have been overcharged on your bill and say they want to give a refund. It sounds easy, but it’s a trap to obtain your banking or personal information. If this “refund” scam happens over the phone, just hang up and block the number. If it occurs via email or text, delete it and block the sender. Always verify the sender’s legitimacy before taking any action.

Defend Yourself Against Scams

• Be Wary of Unknown Callers or Texts: Be suspicious of calls or texts from unknown numbers, especially if they claim to be from your utility company, and request personal information.
• Verify Utility Workers: Never let anyone into your home that you don’t know unless you have a scheduled appointment or reported a problem. Our employees are professionals and will always identify themselves.
• Report Potential Scams: Help protect our community by reporting any potential scams to Wake Electric at 800.474.6300. Your vigilance can help prevent others from falling victim.

Stay safe and vigilant!