Utility scams have been around for years. As technology has progressed, these scams have become more numerous, and in many cases more convincing. With this, the news coverage of these scams has also increased. In June of 2024, this article was published outlining common utility scams - much like one's our member-owners have faced. US Residents Targeted by Utility Scams - June 2024

Recently, Haywood EMC member-owners have reported an uptick in scams regarding the cooperative. While there is very little Haywood EMC can do to prevent criminals from calling our member-owners or impersonating the cooperative, we've compiled a list of tips to help you avoid being scammed.

• Fact check any phone numbers - If someone has called you from or given you a non-local area code and is claiming to be a Haywood EMC representative, this is more than likely a scam. 
• Pay-by-Phone - Haywood EMC will not call member-owners and ask for a payment over the phone. The only way to pay-by-phone with Haywood EMC is through our automated payment system.
• Paying online - Haywood EMC currently offers only one way to pay online. This is through SmartHub. If you are trying to pay a Haywood EMC invoice online any other way, this is a scam.

One of the many advantages of being a member-owner of Haywood EMC is your ability to speak with a representative without the hassle of going through a web of numbers when you call our office. When you dial our office number, you will be connected with one of our friendly member service representatives working at one of our local offices in Waynesville or Lake Toxaway! 

As always, if something seems fishy or you are unsure of a situation, give Haywood EMC a call at 828-452-2281 to speak with one of our member service representatives who can assist you with all things Haywood EMC.