October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of protecting our personal information and the systems we depend on every day.
At South Central Power, cybersecurity is a year-round responsibility. We take steps to safeguard member information, including account and contact details, while also working to protect the technology that supports our electric distribution system. Strong cybersecurity practices help us maintain reliable service and reduce the risk posed by individuals who may try to gain unauthorized access to information or critical systems.
Members play an important role in this effort, too. When you call us, our employees will ask questions to verify your identity before making changes to your account. Even if you have spoken with us before, we cannot rely solely on recognizing your name or voice.
This verification process is designed for your protection. It helps prevent someone from impersonating you and changing your contact information, accessing account details, or taking other actions without your permission. We understand that answering verification questions may add a moment to your call, but that extra step helps keep your information secure.
Cybersecurity works best when we all remain alert. Thank you for helping us protect your account, our cooperative, and the essential electric service our communities depend on.
Protect yourself from scams
- Pause before you act. Be suspicious of urgent requests for money or personal information.
- Verify the source. Contact the person or organization through a trusted phone number or official website — not the contact information in the message.
- Look before you click. Double-check website addresses and email links for misspellings or other red flags.
- Create a family code word. Use a private word or phrase to verify emergency calls.
- Use secure payment methods. Never pay with gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency. Those payment methods are often impossible to recover.
- Report scams. If you think you’ve been targeted, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.