Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative Warns Members of Holiday Season Scams

Lexington, SC 11/14/2026 - With the holiday season approaching, Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative (MCEC) is warning members and the public to remain alert for scammers attempting to take advantage of consumers.

Scammers often use the busy holiday season to target unsuspecting individuals through fraudulent phone calls, text messages and payment demands. MCEC is reminding members of one important fact: The cooperative will never call and demand payment over the phone.

Delinquent accounts are handled through a separate final-notice process.

MCEC encourages members to recognize several common warning signs that may indicate a scam.

Four Warning Signs of a Scam

1. Someone Pretending to Represent a Trusted Organization

Scammers frequently impersonate businesses and organizations people know, including electric utility companies. They may even use technology to disguise their phone numbers, making calls appear to come from a legitimate business. This practice, known as caller ID spoofing, means the name and number displayed on your phone may not be authentic.

2. Claims That There Is a Problem With Your Account

Fraudsters may claim you have an overdue bill or an issue with your account. They may then request personal or financial information, claiming it is necessary to resolve the problem.

3. Pressure to Make an Immediate Payment

Scammers often create a sense of urgency to keep victims from questioning their demands. They may threaten to disconnect electric service or use other intimidation tactics to convince individuals to make an immediate payment.

4. Requests for Unusual Payment Methods

Be cautious if someone demands payment through gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency. Scammers may also send suspicious links and ask you to enter financial information through an unsecured website. These unusual payment requests are major warning signs of fraudulent activity.

Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative remains committed to protecting its members and the communities it serves. The cooperative encourages everyone to stay alert, ask questions and verify suspicious requests before taking action.

Members who believe they have received a fraudulent call or payment threat claiming to be from MCEC are encouraged to contact the cooperative directly at 803-749-6400 to verify whether the communication is legitimate.

Remember: Never allow a threatening phone call to pressure you into making an immediate payment. When in doubt, hang up and contact Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative directly.