How to Recognize and Avoid Common Utility-Related Scams
Scammers sometimes pose as electric utilities or utility partners to steal personal information or money. These scams can happen in person, online, by phone, by text, or through QR codes.
This page explains the most common utility-based scams, how to spot them, and what to do if you encounter one.
A Key Rule to Remember
Douglas Electric Cooperative will never:
- Ask for payment or personal information through a QR code.
- Demand immediate payment in person, in cash, to prevent disconnection.
- Require you to pay by gift card.
- Request your password, PIN, or full account number.
- Send third parties door-to-door to lower your electric bill.
- Threaten arrest or legal action if payment is not made immediately.
If something feels urgent, aggressive, or unusual — pause and contact us directly at 541-673-6616.
Common Utility Scams to Watch For
“Lower Your Electric Bill” or “Instant Savings” Scams
Scammers promise guaranteed or immediate bill reductions and ask you to:
- Scan a QR code
- “Check eligibility”
- Enroll in a special program
Red flags:
- Guaranteed savings
- Pressure to act quickly
- Requests for login or payment info
- Door hangers or flyers with QR codes
Important:
We do not offer bill reductions, rebates, or assistance programs through QR codes or third-party door hangers.
QR Code Scams (Quishing)
QR codes may be placed on:
- Door hangers or flyers
- Meters or utility equipment
- Parking kiosks or public boards
- Emails or text messages
These codes may lead to fake websites designed to collect:
- Login credentials
- Credit card information
- Personal identifying details
If you didn’t request it — don’t scan it.
Phone Call Threats
While we do call customers about past due balances on their account, to provide payment options and information on assistance available, we do not aggressively demand payment, via threats and intimidation.
Text and Email Scams
Messages may claim:
- Billing problems.
- Outage credits.
- Energy assistance eligibility.
- Account verification needed.
Warning signs:
- Generic greetings.
- Misspellings or unusual links.
- Links that don’t match our official website.
- QR codes asking for account access.
In-Person Impersonation
Scammers may:
- Wear reflective vests.
- Claim to be contractors or partners.
- Offer bill reductions or “required enrollment”.
Always remember:
- Our employees drive vehicles labled with the Douglas Electric logo and will be wearing Douglas Electic logo attire.
- We do not collect payment in the field.
- We do not ask members to scan QR codes at their homes.
How to Protect Yourself
- ❌ Do not scan QR codes from unsolicited notices.
- ❌ Do not share personal or billing information.
- ❌ Do not make payments under pressure.
- ✅ Contact us directly using the number on your bill.
- ✅ Report suspicious activity so we can warn others.
What To Do If You’re Unsure
If you receive a message, visit, or notice that seems suspicious:
- Stop — don’t click, scan, or respond.
- Contact us directly at 541-673-6616 or using our Contact Form
- Report what you received so we can investigate.
Your awareness helps protect you, your neighbors, and the entire community.