A recent report from one of our members serves as an important reminder that scammers are constantly changing their tactics.

The member received a phone call that appeared to come directly from Trinity Valley Electric Cooperative’s Member Services number. While many scam calls are easy to spot because they come from unfamiliar or out-of-state numbers, this call looked legitimate. The phone displayed TVEC’s real phone number, making it much more convincing.

Fortunately, the member questioned the call and contacted TVEC directly to verify the information.

How Can This Happen?

Scammers often use a technique called Caller ID Spoofing. Using internet-based phone systems and specialized software, they can make a phone call appear as though it is coming from a trusted organization, business, or even a local phone number.

In other words, just because your caller ID displays a familiar name or number does not mean the call is actually coming from that person or organization.

This tactic is commonly used by scammers pretending to be banks, government agencies, law enforcement offices, and utility providers.

Warning Signs of a Utility Scam

Be cautious if a caller:

  • Demands immediate payment
  • Threatens to disconnect your service within hours
  • Pressures you to act quickly
  • Requests payment through prepaid cards, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers
  • Instructs you not to contact TVEC directly
  • Claims a technician is already on the way to disconnect your service unless payment is made immediately

Scammers rely on fear and urgency to get people to act before they have time to think.

What TVEC Does

When it comes to past-due accounts and payment reminders, TVEC follows established procedures.

TVEC may:

  • Send delinquent notices by mail that include a disconnect date
  • Send email reminders prior to disconnection
  • Provide account information through SmartHub
  • Contact members regarding legitimate account matters through official channels
  • Submit aged delinquent balances on closed accounts to a collection agency that may contact members by phone and letter

What TVEC Never Does

TVEC will never:

  • Call and threaten immediate disconnection if payment is not made right away
  • Require payment using prepaid cards, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or similar methods
  • Send field employees to collect payments at your home or business
  • Use an automated phone system to call members regarding past-due balances
  • Instruct you not to call another TVEC number to verify information
  • Demand cash payment at your home or business
  • Threaten service disconnection on weekends or holidays
  • Call or visit your home to sell products or services such as solar panels, energy audits, or “special energy-saving programs”

What Should You Do?

If you receive a call that seems suspicious, hang up immediately.

Then verify the information through one of TVEC’s official channels:

  • Log in to SmartHub to review your account
  • Call TVEC Member Services directly at 800-766-9576
  • Use TVEC’s 24-hour automated account assistance line at 800-720-3584

The safest approach is simple: never rely solely on caller ID. If someone claims to be from TVEC and requests payment or personal information, end the call and contact us directly using a number you know is legitimate.

Stay Alert, Stay Protected

Scammers continue to evolve their tactics, but awareness remains one of the best defenses.

If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from TVEC, please let us know. Your report may help protect another member from becoming a victim.

When in doubt, hang up and call us directly. We’re always happy to help verify information and answer questions about your account.

We’re Here. For You.