Be Aware! Be Alert! Take Action! Stay Safe!

     Be Aware!  Be Alert!  Take Action!  Stay Safe!

     This morning I read in the Chicago SunTimes, that Commonwealth Edison has issued a warning to their customers regarding the need for caution and awareness regarding possible ComEd impersonators.

     The number of incidents involving this scam has become alarming, with 12 reported cases so far this year.  This number represents a more than 70% increase over prior years reports.

     Evidently the typical impersonation includes tactics to gather personal information from residents or actual payments of cash.  Although a few of the impersonators wore regular work clothes, many had dressed themselves in clothing similar to the clothes worn by ComEd utility workers ... some even donning orange safety vests and fake ComEd logos.

     ComEd is also reporting that other utilities are relating to them that they are also seeing an increase in actions of this nature.  These impersonators have not only tried to gain access to homes, but to businesses and churches as well.  

     Suggestions offered up to customers as actions to improve their safety include:

• Ask for company Photo ID prior to allowing anyone into your home/business
• Utilities in particular NEVER ask for payment on-site.  NEVER give payment, esp. cash, if a utility worker/rep asks for it. 
• Take note of the condition of the logos and clothing of workers.  If logos are worn and/or defaced, be skeptical and take extra-precautions. 
• NEVER allow anyone into your home or business for ANY reason, if you have a gut feeling that things are amiss.  It's better to be wrong and safe ...    

     Everyone, whether ComEd customer or customer of any other business, needs to be aware of the presence and escalation of this danger.  Women and the elderly are especially vulnerable, so they need to be aware and educated regarding this situation.  Please step-up and make sure your loved one, friends, and neighbors are educated and know safety measures. 

     Anyone who believes that they are in immediate danger needs to Dial 911 for their local police.  ComEd's security number is 1-800-550-6154.  ComEd customers are asked to report their concerns regarding security/safety/scam issues to that number. 

     Be aware.   Be alert.   Take Action.   Stay Safe!