BELLEVILLE, Ill. – Illinois American Water says they’ve noticed that, like other utilities, the number of potential scams against it customers seem to be on the rise.
Officials with the utility say as they’ve resumed normal operations for non-emergency work, the number of attempts at scams has gone up with it.
Most often, Illinois American says people are pretending to be utility workers, just stopping by to try and steal your account or personal information.
They say the best thing to do in that case, is ask to see an employee badge.
“Our employees all carry employee badges, and our trucks are marked with our logo,” said Elizabeth Matthews, vice president of operations, Illinois American Water, in a news release. “If we need to enter a customer’s home, we do require an appointment to allow entry and won’t come to the property demanding access inside. It is extremely rare for an employee to show up at a customer’s home without an appointment.”
Other tips for when someone comes to your home saying they’re a utility worker, from Illinois American Water:
- Always ask for a company-issued photo ID. Illinois American Water employees carry company-issued photo ID badges and should not need access to indoor facilities to read meters, perform maintenance or turn service on or off.
- Look for the logo. All Illinois American Water personnel wear company branded clothing and drive company branded vehicles.
- Never give cash. Our employees never collect money or credit card information from customers in the field.
- If you suspect someone may be a utility imposter, close and lock your door, and call 9-1-1. Customers can also call Illinois American Water at 1-800-422-2782 to report the incident and confirm whether service work is scheduled in their area.
- If you suspect you are receiving a phone call from someone attempting to scam you for payment, please hang up. Please call Illinois American Water at 1-800-422-2782 to verify your account status.
If you receive a call demanding money, Illinois American says you should immediately hang up and call 1-800-422-2782. Account information can also be accessed online.
