July 2006

Be Wary of Utility Imposters

Criminals target seniors for wrongdoing

Imposters posing as electric utility workers have victimized seniors in WEMC’s

service territory over the last few months.

Official Walton EMC vehicles prominently display our logo on both sides.

The men pose as Walton EMC employees or contractors and claim to be inspecting power lines. One asks the homeowner to come outside to discuss installing underground wires while the other enters the home and commits the burglary.

“All Walton EMC employees and contractors carry ID cards with their photo and a number to call to verify their employment,” said Larry Thompson, WEMC loss control director.

“Customers should call anytime they have questions. Legitimate employees don’t mind if you call to check them out–you won’t be insulting them or hurting their feelings,” continued Thompson.

Walton EMC’s vehicles are white and display the Walton EMC logo on both sides. There are various contractors who also do work for the cooperative. Look here to see photos of both WEMC and contractor vehicles.

Homeowners should be wary of anyone asking to come inside. The only time Walton EMC employees will enter a home is if they have a previously scheduled appointment, like an energy audit or surge suppression installation.

Use intuition and ask yourself if what the person claims makes sense. In former instances, impostors have asked about cutting trees to make way for an overhead line and then talked about burying the same line.

If you have elderly loved ones or friends, talk to them about people coming to their home.

“We are infuriated these criminals take advantage of the trusting nature of our seniors,” said Greg Brooks, communications coordinator. “Anyone with information should contact their local law enforcement immediately.”

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