Freeborn-Mower Cooperative Services cautioned member-owners to be aware of phone scam callers claiming to represent the cooperative or another utility and asking for payments. According to a press release, an area business was recently contacted the cooperative after receiving such a call.

The caller identified themselves as an employee of Xcel Energy and asked for payment to prevent service from being disconnected.

If contacted by someone claiming to be from the cooperative or a neighboring utility requesting personal or financial information, members should hang up, locate the official organizing phone number online or in the phone directory and place a call to the official number to confirm details.

Those who believe themselves to have been the victim of this or any other scam are encouraged to contact the local law enforcement agency and make a report.

The Freeborn-Mower Cooperative Services office is open to members 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Online and automated voice response phone system services, such as bill payments and account balances, are available around-the-clock except for brief maintenance periods. For more information, visit www.fmcs.coop.

If a customer has additional questions about their bill or their account, they can contact the cooperative by at 507-373-6421 or 800-734-6421 during office hours or by email at memberservices@fmcs.coop.