Scammers are once again targeting the Cookson Hills Electric service area. This time, they are not only attempting to swindle money over the phone, but are also making personal visits.

According to Brad Martin, director of member relations for Cookson Hills Electric Cooperative (CHEC), there have been reports of individuals claiming to be CHEC employees, contractors or representatives visiting homes and asking to inspect the electric meters. These individuals assert that CHEC is replacing all meters with digital ones to accommodate solar power, and that members would be charged $15 per month for the new meter.

“We want to assure you that this information is NOT accurate, and these individuals are not affiliated with Cookson Hills Electric Cooperative or Cookson Hills Connect,” Martin says.

Here are three simple tips to help you avoid being scammed:

• Never give a copy of your bill, driver’s license or personal information such as your date of birth, Social Security number or account number to anyone visiting your home, calling, texting or emailing you. Only provide this information when you visit the CHEC office or initiate a call to the company.

• Watch out for warning signs, such as threats to disconnect your service or requests for payments using gift cards, wire transfers or other unusual payment methods.

• If someone arrives at your home, ask them to wait outside while you call Cookson Hills Electric at 800-328-2368 to verify their identity. If they contact you by phone, hang up and contact CHEC to dis- cuss your account. Don’t reply to an email or text without contacting CHEC first.

You work hard for your money, and scammers try to trick you out of it. CHEC wants to help you avoid these scams. If you have questions or concerns, call CHEC at 800-328-2368 or visit the CHEC office.

For further information on avoiding scams, visit the Utilities United Against Scams website at https:// www.utilitiesunited. org/#ConsumerGuide.