News Summary
Residents of Elizabethton are being warned about a concerning phone scam targeting customers of the Elizabethton Electric System (EES). Scammers posing as representatives are making threatening calls, demanding immediate payment for past due bills. EES assures customers that they will never request payment via phone. Residents are advised to be cautious and avoid giving out any personal or payment information. Safety Coordinator Brandon Campbell encourages everyone to verify any suspicious calls by contacting EES directly. Stay informed and alert to protect yourself from these scams.
Phone Scam Alert in Elizabethton!
Attention, residents of Elizabethton! A concerning phone scam is making the rounds, targeting unsuspecting customers of the Elizabethton Electric System (EES). So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dig into what’s happening. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Scammers Are Calling!
Here’s the scoop: Customers of EES are receiving calls from mysterious private numbers with individuals demanding immediate payment for past due bills. Yikes! The twist? These scammers are quick to threaten disconnection of your power if you don’t comply right away. That’s scary stuff for anyone who relies on electricity!
What EES Wants You to Know
Now, before you panic and start digging for your credit card, let’s clear things up. The folks at EES want to remind you that they will never demand payment over the phone. They are on top of their game when it comes to customer interactions, emphasizing that this type of billing communication is simply not how they operate. So if someone is pressuring you on the line to pay up, hang up!
New Call Service – A Double-Edged Sword
Recently, EES has rolled out a new service in which customers may receive recorded calls informing them about past due bills. If your caller ID shows a number like 423-666-0053, it’s likely legit. Yes, EES is moving with the times to keep you informed! However, it’s crucial to be cautious since scammers can sometimes spoof numbers to make them appear legitimate.
Handling Potential Scams
Brandon Campbell, the Safety and Facilities Coordinator at EES, suggests that if you ever receive an odd call about your bill, reach out to EES directly. They encourage everyone to pick up the phone and call them rather than engaging with unknown callers. This way, you can ensure everything’s alright with your account without running the risk of getting scammed.
The Reported Cases
It’s important to note that there have been several reports of scam calls targeting both individuals and local businesses in Elizabethton. If you’ve experienced such a call, you’re not alone! The EES team wants everyone to be vigilant. When in doubt, treat any unsolicited calls with caution.
What Customers Should Do
So what’s the best course of action should these scam calls come your way? Simple! Don’t give out any of your payment information over the phone. Remember, if it feels fishy, it probably is. EES wants to remind everyone that no reputable organization should be pressuring you for money through unsolicited calls.
Stay Informed and Share the Message
The folks at EES are keen to keep their customers safe. They urge you to stay informed and share this information with your friends and family. The more people know, the better prepared they are to handle these scams.
Remember, Elizabethton! Awareness is your best defense against these underhanded schemes. Whenever you receive a call like this, trust your instincts, and always feel free to reach out for clarification. Stay safe and keep your electricity flowing!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Elizabethton Star: Elizabethton Electric System Warns Customers of Scam
- Google Search: Elizabethton Electric System Scam
- WCYB: Elizabethton Electric System Customers Warned About Scam
- Google Scholar: Elizabethton Electric System Scam
- WJHL: Scam Targets Elizabethton Electric System Customers
- Wikipedia: Telephone scams
- Elizabethton Star: Hazardous Weather Outlook Issued for East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, and North Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Elizabethton
- WJHL: TEMA Confirms 6 Flood Deaths in Latest Update
- Google News: Flood Deaths Elizabethton
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
