Progress Energy warns customers of scam

Thieves posing as Progress Energy utility workers have robbed half a dozen unsuspecting homeowners in recent weeks, and the utility is warning customers to beware of scams.

None of the half dozen cases were in the Triangle, but in eastern North Carolina counties such as Nash, and in points west, such as Asheville. In many of the incidents, people claiming to work for Progress Energy, have asked to enter homes by telling the homeowner they were there to conduct an energy-efficiency inspection.

Most incidents have involved elderly homeowners in rural areas. In some cases, the purported utility workers have asked the homeowner to step outside the home to look at a meter or pole, and while away, another person slips into the home undetected.

Progress Energy spokesman Mike Hughes said law enforcement officials have been notified but no arrests have been made.

He encourages customers not to open their door for utility workers unless they can confirm the person's identity. Progress Energy employees carry company badges with photographs. But since ID badges, vehicle signs and clothing can be fabricated, none of these is sufficient to assure a person's identity.

Other than in emergencies or safety-related issues, there are practically no instances when a representative of Progress Energy would show up at a customer's home unannounced and ask to perform work.

Homeowners wanting to check on the identity of a utility worker at their door can call Progress Energy customer service center at 1-800-452-2777.