The trick goes like this: A caller claims to be a Walton EMC representative. The scammer goes on to say that in order to avoid immediate disconnection of electric service, the consumer must furnish a credit or pre-paid card number for payment. Any unsuspecting consumer who complies will have his credit card fraudulently charged or lose the money they spent on the pre-paid card.
Some of the scams also involve a toll-free number that consumers are directed to call. We do notify customer-owners of pending disconnection, but know these facts about our process:
- We don't dictate the payment method you must use. In some instances, we may require certified funds.
- Customer-owners whose accounts are in danger of disconnection will receive notice on their bill. We will also attempt an automated courtesy call two days before disconnection.
- Courtesy calls from Walton EMC concerning delinquent accounts are placed during normal business hours.
- Service disconnections are only made during regular business hours.
If you're contacted by a suspicious caller:
- Get the caller's name, phone number from caller ID and any other information you can.
- DO NOT give the caller any personal or financial information.
- Call us at 770-267-2505.