Police: Beware of Door-to-Door Electricity Solicitors

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL — The Crystal Lake Police Department is reminding residents to beware door-to-door electricity salesmen and saleswomen. The individuals typically use high pressure sales tactics and promise to lower a resident’s electric bill, according to a news release from the city of Crystal Lake.

"The city does not have any employees assigned to go door-to-door to discuss electricity rates. If you are approached by someone claiming to be from “the City” or “the electric company,” they may represent an alternative electricity supplier that could increase your bill," city officials said in a news release last week.

Police reminded residents not to provide any information regarding your electric account to someone who comes to your door, since that person could be trying to sign you up without your permission, according to police.

Residents should also make sure to get the name of the company the person represents, along with the individual’s name and phone number, and to check your electric bills to verify the company listed on the supply section of your bill. If you see a strange company on your bill, you could be paying additional costs for an alternative power supplier, according to the news release.

If you believe you have given out information to an unknown electric service provider, or if you see an unknown company listed as a power supplier on your bill, contact NIMEC at (847) 607-1804 or Nick Hammonds with the Crystal Lake at (815) 356-3675.

If you need to speak to someone outside of normal business hours, call the police department’s non-emergency line at (815) 356-3620 or dial 9-1-1 in case of emergency. If you believe that you are the victim of fraudulent electrical supplier activities contact the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) Consumer Services Division complaint line at (800) 524-0795, or online at http://www.icc.illinois.gov/consumer/complaint.