While Wichita Falls is currently dealing with flood warnings and heavy weather, a new issue has appeared that has nothing to do with the rain — a dangerous electricity scam targeting local residents.
One local, Suszette McKee, shared her recent experience with an alleged representative from an electric company who came to her door offering to lower her electricity bill by removing ONCOR delivery charges. But instead of helping, the visitor raised suspicions.
What Happened?
McKee lives in a quiet neighborhood and wasn’t expecting someone trying to sell electricity plans at her door. She said the man who approached her was wearing a yellow safety vest and a lanyard that said “Simplicity.” He claimed he could help lower her bill.
However, when she asked basic questions — like which company he worked for and if he had any ID — he avoided the questions, fumbled with his phone, and never showed any identification.
“I asked him if he had an ID, and he said yes, but he kept changing the subject,” McKee explained. That’s when she decided to refuse the offer and call her electricity provider, Reliant Energy.
The Real Danger Behind the Scam
According to McKee and Reliant Energy, these types of scams are not new. If someone gets access to your electric account number, they could switch your provider without your knowledge. This type of fraud can lead to confusion, unexpected charges, and even interruptions in service.
More Residents Report Similar Incidents
McKee also found posts on her neighborhood app where other residents described similar encounters. The scammers often pretend to be from an energy provider and may ask to see your electric bill — something you should never allow.
“If someone comes to your door and asks to see your bill, don’t let them,” McKee said. She added that she now only checks official company websites or calls her provider directly for offers and plans.
What Should You Do If Someone Shows Up?
To avoid falling into such scams:
- Don’t share your account number or personal details with door-to-door visitors.
- Ask for official ID and verify their details with your current electricity provider.
- Report any suspicious visitors to your provider and to local police.
- Check for posts or warnings on neighborhood apps or community groups.
Protect Yourself With Proper Research
McKee, who has lived through serious events like the Terrible Tuesday tornadoes of 1979, knows the importance of staying alert. She urges others to be careful about who they trust, especially during storm season when scams like this tend to rise.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) also offers resources to help residents identify and avoid scams. Always research before switching services or giving out information to someone claiming to represent a company.