Energex has suggested the public be brought aware to realise that door-to-door scammers are operating in the community, claiming to represent the electricity distributor in a bid to gain personal information or even access to properties.
Area Manager at Energex, Chris Duncan said the scammers were operating south of Brisbane last week trying various approaches to rip off residents.
“One resident notified us of two men in hi-vis shirts who were door-knocking and claiming to be from Energex,” Mr Duncan said.
“They were offering cheaper power if they were able to get their hands on personal and financial documents,” he said.
“Another dodgy pair said they needed to get inside a resident’s home before Energex could start upgrade works in the area.”
He said that in these two cases property owners did not give them access or information, but it was possible other people might fall for the deception.
“Anyone with further information or CCTV footage should contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000,” Mr Duncan said.
He said there were a few simple checks people could do to confirm the legitimacy of someone claiming to be from Energex.
“Firstly, we’ll never, ever cold call on the phone or knock on a door asking for personal or financial information,” Mr Duncan said.
“Anyone who gets a call or visit like this should close the door or hang up.”
“Secondly, all Energex staff carry official identification and will produce it when asked.
“We do use trusted contractors to carry out some tasks, and they also have ID that they’re happy to show on request.”
He said Energex was not an electricity retailer and did not send power bills to homes “so anyone who says they’re from Energex and wants to see your bill or claims to be able to save you money is also a scammer”.
“Finally, we’ve heard of solar installers claiming to be ‘Energex-preferred’, Mr Duncan said.
“We don’t endorse or preference any electrical contractors or installers, so if someone’s telling you that, alarm bells should be ringing,” he said.
