How to Detect a Spam Call

Spam calls have become an everyday annoyance—and in some cases, a serious threat. From fake prize offers to callers pretending to be utility companies or government agencies, scammers are getting more convincing. Knowing how to spot a spam call can help protect your personal information, your money, and your peace of mind.

Common Signs a Call Is Spam

1. Urgent or Threatening Language Scam callers often try to create panic. If a caller says your account will be shut off immediately, you owe money right now, or legal action is pending unless you act fast, that’s a major red flag.

2. Requests for Personal or Financial Information Legitimate companies will never ask for sensitive information—like your Social Security number, passwords, or banking details—over the phone.

3. “Too Good to Be True” Offers Free vacations, cash prizes, or exclusive deals that require immediate action are classic scam tactics. If it sounds unbelievable, it probably is.

4. Robotic or Unfamiliar Callers Many spam calls use prerecorded messages or callers who avoid answering questions directly. If you can’t easily verify who they are, don’t engage.

5. Spoofed Phone Numbers Scammers often disguise their numbers to look local or familiar. Even if the caller ID appears legitimate, it doesn’t guarantee the call is real.

How to Protect Yourself

• Don’t answer unknown numbers if you’re not expecting a call

• Hang up immediately if something feels off

• Never press buttons or respond to prompts during suspicious calls

• Block and report spam numbers using your phone’s built-in features

What to Do If the Call Claims to Be From Your Utility or Internet Provider

If a caller claims to represent your electric cooperative or internet provider:

• Hang up

• Contact the company directly using the phone number on your bill or official website

• Never rely on a number the caller provides

Utility companies do not demand immediate payment over the phone or threaten instant service disconnection.

Stay Informed, Stay Protected

Spam calls are designed to catch people off guard—but a little awareness goes a long way. Trust your instincts, slow down, and verify before taking action. When in doubt, it’s always safer to hang up.

Staying informed helps keep you—and your community—safe.