Stay Scam-Smart This Holiday Season

How to protect yourself from those posing as Owen Electric—and other common holiday scams

The holiday season is a time for giving, gathering, and celebrating—but unfortunately, it’s also a time when scammers ramp up their efforts. From fake utility calls to misleading emails and text messages, fraud attempts spike during the busy winter months. As you juggle holiday to-dos, it’s important to stay alert and know how to protect yourself.

At Owen Electric, your safety—both electrical and financial—is a top priority. Here’s what to watch for and how to safeguard your information.

Watch Out for Caller ID Spoofing

Scammers often use technology to make their phone number appear as if it's coming from Owen Electric or another trusted source.
Red flag: High-pressure tactics claiming your service will be disconnected unless you make an immediate payment.
Your safeguard: Hang up. Then call Owen Electric directly using the number on your bill or our official website, owenelectric.com. Our team can confirm your account status.

Never Pay with Gift Cards or Wire Transfers

Owen Electric will never demand payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or payment apps.
Red flag: Anyone asking for unusual forms of payment or insisting you stay on the line while you pay.
Your safeguard: Only use secure, verified payment methods—like our mobile app, automated phone system, or online member portal.

Be Cautious of Unexpected Texts or Emails

Scammers send messages claiming your bill is overdue, your account needs to be “verified,” or you’ve won a prize.
Red flag: Misspellings, suspicious links, urgent language, or anything asking for personal information.
Your safeguard: Do not click links. Instead, log in through Owen Electric’s official website or call us to verify.

Know When an Owen Electric Employee is Legitimate

Our employees and contractors drive marked vehicles, wear proper identification, and will never threaten you or demand immediate payment.
Red flag: Anyone claiming to be from the co-op who refuses to show ID or appears unexpectedly demanding immediate action.
Your safeguard: Ask for identification, and if something feels off, call us at (800) 372-7612, option 4, before proceeding.

Be Skeptical of "Too Good to Be True" Offers

Discounts on your utility bill, charity requests, and social media giveaways are common targets for fraud.
Red flag: Offers that require upfront fees or ask for your banking information.
Your safeguard: Call Owen Electric at (800) 372-7612, option 4, with any questions or to verify communications.

Protect Your Online Accounts

With increased online shopping comes more exposure to cyber risks.
Your safeguard:

• Use strong, unique passwords for your email and financial accounts.
• Enable multi-factor authentication where possible.
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi when accessing sensitive information.

Trust Your Gut

You never have to make an immediate decision—scammers rely on urgency to pressure you. If something doesn’t feel right, stop and verify through official channels.

We're Here to Help

If you ever receive a call, message, or visit that doesn’t seem legitimate, Owen Electric is only a phone call away. We can confirm whether the contact came from us and provide guidance on what to do next.

Staying vigilant keeps you—and your holiday season—safe and stress-free. Share these tips with friends and family so everyone can enjoy a scam-free winter.