Scammers targeting Co-op customers

Flathead Electric Cooperative reports it has received reports that some Co-op members have been received fraudulent phone calls from people posing as Co-op employees.

One angle of this scam is to say that the member owes money and that electrical service will be shut off unless payment is made immediately. The scammer then asks the member to provide personal information, such as a Social Security number, credit card number or utility account number, to keep electrical service active.

The Co-op says it follows a comprehensive series of procedures to notify members of delinquent accounts and to find an equitable solution for all concerned.

The Co-op no longer utilizes an automated phone messaging system for members in arrears, and it suggests that anyone who questions the legitimacy of a phone call should simply hang up and directly dial their Co-op office. Local law enforcement agencies should also be advised when illegal activity is suspected.

For more information, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s identity theft Web site at www.ftc.gov/idtheft.