Scam #1: The prepaid debit card scam. Scammers insist that consumers need to pay their bill immediately or their electricity will be disconnected. They tell them to purchase a prepaid debit card and call them back, to a specific number, with the verification code.
Scam #2: False rebate. Scammers inform consumers that they have a $25 rebate on their monthly Ohio Cooperative Living subscription. The scammers say they need consumers’ bank account information to transfer the rebate.
Scam #3: Google scam. A Google Calendar invitation pops up in your email inbox. It claims that it is a “Good Calendar” and has the subject line, “Your electric bill is available.”
A call, email, letter, or home visit from an unfamiliar number or person
Asking for personal or any bank account information
Demanding an immediate payment with a threat attached
Only accepting a prepaid debit card as a form of payment
Pressuring you for a quick decision and payment Informing you of a rebate you should not be receiving
Scam Safety Reminders
Your electric co-op, bank, or other utilities and organizations will never call you and ask for confidential, personal, or financial information over the phone.
Always ensure that the number or email contacting you is the same as the contact information on your bill
If you believe you’re being scammed, collect as much information about the situation as possible and report it to your co-op immediately.
