February 2005

Beware of Utility Imposters

Criminals Target Elderly Customers

Two neighboring electric utilities recently reported instances of criminal imposters posing as utility workers to get inside customers' homes.

Once inside, the imposter occupies the homeowner's attention while a partner enters another door and searches for valuables or cash to steal.

“Be wary of anyone asking to come in your home,” said Larry Thompson, WEMC director of safety and training. “The only time a Walton EMC employee will come inside your home is if you schedule an energy audit, surge suppression installation or similar appointment. We will not come to your home unannounced and ask to come inside.”

All Walton EMC employees and contractors carry ID cards with their photos and a phone number to call to verify their employment. Call anytime you have questions. “A legitimate employee does not mind if you call us to check them out,” said Thompson.

If a utility employee shows up at your door, think about what they say and ask yourself if it makes sense.

In one case, the imposter talked about cutting trees to make way for an overhead line and then talked about burying the same line underground. There is no need to do both.

In the other case, an imposter asked about cutting trees and then wanted to talk about lowering the customer's electric bill. “Our employees and contractors are specialized,” continued Thompson. “A tree trimming crew won't talk to you about a high bill and a member services representative won't ask you about trimming trees.”

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