Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative members recently reported an increase in attempted phone scams by people claiming to represent Bluebonnet. The fraudulent callers have told co-op members that their power will be disconnected within 30 minutes unless they make an immediate payment over the phone.
“Attempted scams like this increase around the holidays,” said Matt Bentke, Bluebonnet’s general manager. “The key to stopping them is to be aware of them and know your account status. Our members can access their account information through our website or mobile app or by calling our member services number.”
Bluebonnet makes at least two attempts to remind its members whose payments are late – once by mail and email, and again by a courtesy phone call – within 10 days after the payment due date on the bill. The call comes from the cooperative’s automated phone system.
If you are a Bluebonnet member who has not received a reminder in the mail or email or a courtesy call about your account and someone calls demanding an immediate payment, do not pay. Do not provide the caller with personal information, information about your Bluebonnet account, or any banking or credit card account information.
Bluebonnet members can check their account status 24 hours a day, every day, from their computer, smartphone or tablet through the co-op’s website, bluebonnet.coop, via the MyBluebonnet mobile app or by calling 800-842-7708.
Report any potential scam attempts to Bluebonnet and your local law enforcement agencies.