DTE Energy and its Detroit Edison and MichCon subsidiaries warn customers to beware of con artists posing as utility workers who strike in the spring commonly target senior citizens.
“Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous people out there who may pose as Detroit Edison and MichCon employees to take advantage of our customers,” said Michael Lynch, DTE Energy’s director of corporate security. “We urge customers to be cautious to prevent these criminals from entering their homes.”
One common scam involves thieves posing as utility employees, asking the homeowner for payment of an outstanding bill and threatening to shut off service if it’s not paid on the spot. Sometimes these thieves work in pairs. One will distract the homeowner while the other searches the house for money and other valuables.
“DTE Energy employees never collect money from customers at their homes or businesses,” said Lynch. “If someone comes to your door claiming to be a DTE Energy employee and asks for payment, call the police.”
DTE Energy field employees carry photo identification badges that identify them as DTE Energy employees. Customers who are not sure about an employee’s identification, or who want to verify the nature of the work to be done at their homes, should call DTE Energy at (800) 477-4747.
Lynch said customers should keep the following tips in mind:
– All utility employees and contractors carry photo identification badges, and are required to display their badge if asked. Customers are encouraged to ask for identification.
– Do not allow people into your home who claim to offer a Detroit Edison or MichCon refund. DTE Energy employees NEVER deliver cash refunds or rebates to customers’ homes. DTE Energy employees also NEVER collect money from customers at their homes.
– Do not pay for tree-trimming work by individuals claiming to be from Detroit Edison or a Detroit Edison contractor. The utility does not charge for line clearance work. Additionally, before tree-trimming crews enter a neighborhood for scheduled line clearance work, customers are notified about the work to be done.
– Call the police if you believe the person at your door is a con artist posing as a utility worker.
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