J U LY
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2024
STOPPING SCAMS BEFORE THEY STRIKE
DEAR MEMBERS, Recently, there has been a concerning rise in scams. According to a 2023 report from the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Internet Crime Complaint Center, Florida ranks second in the nation for the number of reported scam victims. Thousands of these scams lead to significant financial losses of more than $90 million to investment schemes, $51 million to tech support scams, and over $40 million to romance scams. Scams are becoming increasingly prevalent, and it's important to recognize that SECO Energy members have not been exempt. As part of our ongoing commitment to your safety and security, I want to bring your attention to the growing number of scam concerns reported by members.
Scams Affecting Members: • • • •
Phone Scams Phishing Texts and Emails Door-to-Door Impersonators Fake Utility Apps
Scammers create a false sense of urgency or fear to manipulate you. They may pressure you to make immediate payments, threaten service disconnection, or offer unsolicited services like solar panel installations. Their mission is to exploit your trust and fears to extract personal information or money.
Avoid a potential scam, ask yourself:
If answers to these questions don't make sense, it's likely a scam, and you should avoid engaging any further. If you are ever in doubt of the identity of someone claiming to be with SECO Energy, contact us directly. Contact SECO Energy: (352) 793-3801 customerservice@secoenergy.com SECOEnergy.com We also encourage you to report any suspicious apps, reoccurring phone numbers, or video footage of scammers captured by you or your neighbor's home security camera or Ring doorbell to SECO Energy. If you encounter suspicious activity or feel threatened, exercise caution, stay safe, and contact local law enforcement. Your cooperation helps us in our ongoing efforts to combat fraud and protect our members. Sincerely,
CURTIS WYNN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
1. WHO is this communication from? Is it someone you usually interact with? 2. WHAT are they asking for? Is this request reasonable or unusually urgent? 3. WHEN did you receive this message, and does the timing make sense in context? 4. WHERE is the message coming from? Does the source seem legitimate or suspicious? Is this the usual method of communication for this type of request? 5. WHY are you receiving this message— does it have a valid reason, or does it seem out of the blue?
• Common Scams • Scam Prevention • SmartHub JULY 2024 | SECO NEWS
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