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Slam the scam: How to protect yourself

All News

We are increasing our communication efforts regarding utility scams. Every day, we work hard to warn members about scams, explain how they work, and offer tips on what people should and should not do. 

Even the wariest consumers can be duped. The scammers are developing new tactics every day. One example is the “past due” scam, in which a member gets a call from an 800-number that looks like ECE’s phone number (widely available spoofing software allows crooks to display what appears to be an official number on caller IDs). The caller threatens to cut off power if the customer doesn’t pay.

But here’s the giveaway: The crook will demand payment via a prepaid debit card or money order, and ask for it within a specified time frame–often an hour or less. 

Tips to protect yourself:

  • Do not assume your caller ID is correct; caller IDs can be spoofed. 

  • Never share your personal information, including birth date.

  • Never wire money to someone you don’t know.

  • Do not click links or call numbers in unexpected emails or texts–especially those asking for your account information.

IMPORTANT
We will NEVER require our members to purchase prepaid debit cards or money orders to avoid an immediate disconnection. If you receive a call that sounds like a scam, hang up and check the status of your account on SmartHub or call us at
1-800-254-7944.

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©2023 East Central Energy. All Rights Reserved. All information on this website can be made available in an alternate form by calling 1-800-254-7944.

  • Home
  • Your Cooperative
    • About Us
      • Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
      • History
      • About Touchstone Energy
    • Capital Credits
    • Careers & Job Openings
    • Cogeneration
    • Directors and Districts
      • Board Meetings
    • Director Election
    • Hours & Locations
    • Member Resource Council
    • Sustainability
    • Statement of Non-Discrimination
    • Power Concerns
    • Red Flags Rule
  • New Construction
    • Residential
    • Commercial
  • Residential
    • Billing & Payment
      • Charges & Fees
      • Payment Options
      • Understanding My Bill
    • Assistance Information
    • Cold Weather Rule
      • Military Cold Weather Rule
    • Landlord Preauthorization Agreement
    • Power Outage
    • Medical Alert
    • Renewable Energy
      • Solar Energy
      • Wind Energy
    • Sales Tax Exemptions
    • Start or Stop Service
    • Together We Save
    • Contact Us
  • Programs & Rebates
    • 2023 residential program highlights
    • Residential Rebates
    • Air Source Heat Pump
    • Storage Space Heating
    • Storage Water Heating
    • Interruptible Water Heating
    • Ground Source Heat Pump
    • Electric Vehicles
    • Dual Fuel
  • Business
    • Charges & Fees - Commercial
    • Contact Us - Business Accounts
    • Economic Development
    • Cost Saving Programs
    • Business Bulletin
    • Energy Saving Tips
      • Business Energy Evaluation
    • Payment Options Business
    • Start or Stop Service - Commercial
    • Rebates - Commercial
  • Contractors
    • Before Working Overhead
    • HVAC Contractors
    • Power Line Emergencies
    • Resources for Electricians
  • Safety
    • Call Before You Dig
    • Downed Power Lines
    • Storm Information
    • Copper Theft
    • Request a presentation
    • Safe Electricity
  • Community
    • Operation Round Up
      • Grants
    • COOPx
    • Scholarships
    • Community Award
    • Caring Members
    • Youth Tour
    • Community Partnership
    • Parents and Educators
    • Watt's Cookin'
    • Co-op Connections
  • Trees & Lines
    • Emerald Ash Borer
    • Storm Damage & Downed Lines
    • Tree Concerns & Requests
    • Tree Planting Guidelines
    • Vegetation Management Plan
  • Newsroom
    • Co-op Advantage Newsletter
    • News & Events
    • Media Inquiries
    • Pollinator Blog
    • Video Gallery
    • Annual Report