In a world that’s always looking for ways to make things easier for convenience’s sake, you can be sure scammers will continue finding new methods to go after your personal information and your money.

We’ve heard of all sorts. In some cases, it was a door knock from someone claiming to be with Clay Electric, while in others, it was a phone call. It’s going to continue happening, and the best thing your co-op can do is warn you and hope you take these warnings seriously. 

Here are some examples.

Scam 1) A member received a call from a scammer who said they would pay her entire electric bill if she provided them with a smaller fee via credit card.

What to know: The co-op will not contact members directly and demand an instant, immediate payment without prior warnings.

We will issue a notice via email and in the mail to members who have not paid their bill and are facing a disconnection. The MyClayElectric app will also show whether the member has an outstanding bill and they can pay directly via the app.

Scam 2) A member used an online search engine to locate what they believed was the Clay Electric phone number but mistakenly called a scammer. The member inquired about a connection request and were met with a pushy individual who demanded the member finish the order, insisting they make a large deposit via credit card.

What to know: When you use a search engine, there’s no telling what might come up that’s not affiliated with the
co-op. Head straight to: ClayElectric.com. The phone number for the co-op’s main office (1-800-224-4917) — which members can call to request new service — is right on the homepage, as is a link to request a power turn-on by simply entering the property’s address. It’s that easy.

Scam 3) Members of a neighborhood reported being approached by people going door-to-door, saying they partnered with Clay Electric to sell them a home solar power unit (or photovoltaic system).

What to know: Clay Electric does not sell solar units nor does the co-op endorse or partner with a particular installer. Your co-op also does not sell or provide information about members to third parties. Members interested in solar power should visit our solar assessment page at ClayElectric.com/solar-right-me.

The key thing the co-op wants to remind members: If something seems off, hang up the phone and give us a call at 1-800-224-4917.

We encourage members to report any potential scams. It’s OK to be suspicious of someone who’s claiming to be with Clay Electric, especially if that person is pressing for personal information.