On a normal Thursday evening, it may seem innocuous for a phone call to ring your iPhone with the caller ID of Homer Electric Association. Many folks might be inclined to say, “Perhaps there’s a problem with my account that we need to take care of!” Well, that response is exactly what HEA does not want members to adopt during the holiday season.
Homer Electric Association is getting reports from their members regarding suspicious HEA impersonators over the phone. They issued a statement on Thursday alerting members to be alert and careful about the information they provide over the phone.
Bruce Shelley, Director of HEA Member Relations: “Yes, those scammers are at it again – impersonating HEA personnel. Please stay alert and realize that there are people who will attempt to take advantage of others during this uncertain time. If you receive a suspicious phone call, please hang up and call HEA directly to verify your account information.”
He warned that the nefarious efforts are only worsening: “Scammers are becoming smarter and smarter, so don’t be fooled by caller ID, even if it says ‘Homer Electric Association.’ Never give anyone your personal information, such as your social security number, bank account, or credit card number unless you initiated the conversation and you are confident that the transaction is legitimate.”
In a phishing campaign earlier this year, cyber-criminals sent e-mails that looked like they came from the World Health Organization, asking people to click on a malicious link to view COVID-19 safety measures. Calls and emails from tech crooks will typically attempt to create heightened fear and a strong sense of urgency to pressure people into providing personal or sensitive information.
When in-doubt, hang-up! Call HEA yourself to ensure that your account has not been compromised. They can be reached via telephone at (800) 478-8551.