Utility Staff Impostors Target Capitol Hill Residents

Northeast resident Karen Chaput, who lives at 8th and G Street NE, recently told me about a troubling exchange at her front door. While we all have strategies to avoid the various scams that come our way, it’s always surprising the steps criminals will take to victimize homeowners. Be on the watch for men impersonating Washington Gas employees.

“Two men came to my door around 5:30 PM and said they were from ‘Washington Gas Services.’ They wore photo badges and had an official-looking logo on their hats and coats. They said that I hadn’t responded to their inquiry in the mail about a new plan that is going into effect and that they needed to see my Wash Gas bill.  After I turned them away, I went on the Washington Gas website and found this info:

Customer Advisory: Utility Impostors

Washington Gas is advising customers about recent incidents where individuals are posing as utility workers in an effort to access homes or businesses in order to obtain information that can be used in identity theft and fraud.
The company feels it is important to notify customers in an effort to prevent them from becoming potential victims.
Washington Gas offers the following tips to customers:

• Washington Gas employees on company business are required to carry a photo ID/Company badge.
•  Washington Gas employees who perform services, including work on natural gas meters or natural gas lines, wear uniforms that carry the Washington Gas logo.
• Most of the time, a Washington Gas employee responds to a service request. If no one at your address scheduled an appointment, call Washington Gas at 703-750-1000 before allowing anyone inside your home or business.
• Always ask for identification before allowing anyone inside your home.
• Never give out any personal, confidential information to unknown or untrusted people or organizations.

If you have any concerns, suspect you have been approached by an imposter, or have information to report regarding this fraud, please contact your local law enforcement office. In addition, you may contact Washington Gas’ 24-hour security hotline at 703-750-4370 if you believe your Washington Gas account has been compromised.