Known Scams

Known scams that have targeted our members can be found below. These descriptions can help you understand how criminals target utility customers.

We encourage you to help make friends and family aware of risks and common scams, and revisit this site periodically to check for updates on emerging scam activity.  

Members who suspect they are being scammed should report the crime to DSO and to local authorities.

Power Shut Off Scams

Caller demands immediate payment.

In this widespread scam, which frequently targets small businesses, a telephone caller poses as an electric utility company employee. The caller threatens to shut off the power unless an immediate payment is made. In many cases, the member is told to use a pre-paid credit card, such as a Green Dot/Money Pak card, or a money transfer service like Money Gram or Western Union.

The Facts:

• If your account is past due, you will receive a written notice of your account status, with instructions on how to avoid disconnection of service.
• DSO may notify, as a courtesy, members by telephone at least 24 hours before they are to be disconnected. This is done by electronic notification equipment to the member's telephone number on file.

What should you do?

• If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately.
• Be aware that scammers often use Caller ID spoofing software to misrepresent the source of a phone call, or provide you with a fake verification phone number. These call-back numbers may even include replicas of company greeting and hold messaging. If you would like to verify your account status, always call our Member Service department using 1-800-376-3533 or log in to your account on our website.