Identity Theft Scam Targets Electricity Consumers - ANEC Users

From Vernon N. Brinkley

President/CEO, A&N Electric Cooperative

ANEC

I am writing today to alert you to an identity theft scheme targeting electric consumers across the nation. A punishing heat wave, large utility bills, and a bad economy have given criminals a “perfect storm” of opportunity to prey on the suffering of others. The perpetrators have been marching across the country, making their way from state to state, persuading victims that a special federal government assistance program -- sometimes described as a bailout authorized by President Barack Obama's administration -- is available to pay their utility bills. Victims are given bank account and routing numbers to use when paying their bills online, but only after they "register" by surrendering their Social Security numbers and other personal information.

There is no such utility payment assistance program, and the old adage still holds true -- if something appears too good to be true, it probably is. Never give out your social security number or bank account information to someone who calls you without verifying the call.


WHAT TO DO


If you receive a phone call from a person representing themselves as an A &N Electric Cooperative (ANEC) employee and you suspect it is a scam, hang up. Do not give the caller any personal information. Be especially protective of your social security number, bank and credit card numbers, and driver’s license number.


Legitimate companies will not call or e-mail you asking for your account number or password, so keep your account information to yourself. You should also not assume that you can trust caller ID to let you know where a caller is located. Because scammers may use Internet calling technology, the area code you see may not reflect where they really are. Jot down the person's name, then hang up and call ANEC's main line at (757) 787-9750 to verify the call.

If someone appears at your door claiming to represent ANEC, you can call us at (757) 787-9750 to verify the visit. Never let anyone into your home unless you have scheduled an appointment or unless the person has proper identification. The ANEC logo should appear on hats, shirts, and vehicles. If you suspect someone is impersonating a ANEC employee, do not let them into your home and call the police or sheriff immediately.

Finally, please warn neighbors, friends and relatives who may be susceptible to these types of scams.

A & N Electric Co-op Warns Members

Beware of Scammers!

A & N Electric Cooperative is warning members to be aware of a bill-paying scam that asks them to disclose Social Security and bank routing numbers.


Scammers claim electric consumers can have their utility bills paid under an Obama Administration program. No such program exists.


The solicitations have been made door-to-door, online and by phone. Members are asked for personal information and then given fake bank account numbers to use for making a payment on their utility bill. Due to this scam, A & N has currently suspended the use of E-checks on their website. All other features of the website are working as usual. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Members are urged to alert police if they're contacted about the scam.