Flathead Electric warns customers of phone scam

Flathead Electric Cooperative is warning customers about a spate of fraudulent phone calls from people posing as co-op employees.

“The imposters threaten to shut off power to the home or business if payment is not made immediately,” states a May 3 news release.

In some cases, the co-op reports, caller ID has indicated “Flathead Electric Co-op” as the caller.

“It is not the policy of FEC to ask personal questions of its members or to threaten members with immediate disconnect if there is a balance on their account,” the news release states. “The co-op follows a comprehensive series of procedures with regards to delinquent accounts to find an equitable solution for all concerned.”

Co-op customers who receive an identical or similar phone call are asked not to release any personal or financial information, and to contact a local co-op office.

“Local law enforcement agencies should also be advised when illegal activity is suspected,” the news release states. “In addition, if you are concerned about protecting yourself from identity theft or feel you may be a victim, you can find more information by visiting the Federal Trade Commission’s identity theft site at www.ftc.gov/idtheft.”