Protecting Your Identity

Red Flags Rule

Identity theft is a growing problem. To help combat the threat, FKEC follows the Red Flags Rule that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires financial institutions, creditors, and utilities to implement to verify identity.

An identity thief uses an individual’s personally identifying information to open new accounts or misuse existing accounts, which can disrupt and complicate lives for both consumers and businesses.

When you contact FKEC for information about your account, you will be asked to verify your identity. In most cases, we will ask for your social security number and use the last four digits for proper identification.

The primary account holder must make special arrangements for others, including spouses, to access FKEC account information. Please call FKEC for assistance. 

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Beware of Scammers Targeting Utility Consumers

Scammers are targeting utility consumers nationwide, and unfortunately, FKEC members are no exception. Remember, NEVER provide personal, confidential, or financial information to unknown individuals. If you receive a suspicious call, or any call, email, or visit, threatening to disconnect your power, call FKEC at 305-852-2431 immediately to ensure you are speaking to a bona fide FKEC employee.

Also, not all scams come as a threat. Some scammers offer you a reward or bill credit in hopes of obtaining your financial information. Do not fall victim to this tactic either!

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

• You can ONLY pay your FKEC utility bill over the phone by calling our secure phone payment number 1-855-385-9912. If you are given a different number to call, or if the thief asks for your payment information over the phone it is a SCAM!
• FKEC does not accept any kind of prepaid card, including Green Dot and Reloadit cards, as payment for your bill. Don’t fall for anyone demanding a prepaid debit card.
• FKEC will never ask you for payment via a money wire.
• FKEC will always notify consumers of overdue electric bills prior to calling to disconnect service.

SCAM TACTICS TO BE AWARE OF:

• Spoofing FKC’s caller I.D. to appear to be calling from FKEC.
• Using a recording of our automated phone greeting so that it sounds like you have reached FKEC offices when you call the phone number provided by the scammer.
• Telling the target a technician is on the way to upgrade a meter and payment will need to be provided immediately, or the meter will fail, and power will go out.
• Threatening to disconnect power if the instructions to purchase a prepaid cash card are not followed.
• Claiming you paid too much on a utility bill and offering a refund and/or a discount on your future bills if you provide personal information.
• Lying and saying you must make an appointment to pay your bill in person at an FKEC office. FKEC offices and drive-throughs are open Mon-Fri, 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.; no appointment is needed.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF:

• Know your account status and balance. You can access your account online via FKEC SmartHub.
• Commercial consumers should make all managers and staff aware of potential utility scams.
• Never provide personal, confidential, or financial information to unknown individuals.
• If you have any doubts about whether a call, email or visit from someone claiming to represent FKEC is legitimate, please call FKEC at 305-852-2431. An operator is available 24/7.
• Report any suspicious activity to police.
• Please protect our community by sharing this information with your friends and neighbors.

FKEC is working with co-op members and law enforcement to prevent these scams, but the best defense against these thieves is to be alert and informed. Please help ensure no one falls victim to these scammers by warning your friends, family, and neighbors of this scam.