As energy costs rise, scammers are increasingly targeting homeowners with sophisticated "energy evaluation" or "audit" scams. These schemes often start with a knock at your door or an unexpected phone call from someone claiming to represent a government agency or your local utility company. How the Scam Works
: In some cases, one "inspector" will distract the homeowner while another steals valuables from the house. Red Flags to Watch For How to spot an energy scam Energy Evaluation Scam
Con artists use the promise of lower utility bills to gain entry into your home or access your sensitive data. Common tactics include: As energy costs rise, scammers are increasingly targeting
: After the "inspection," they pressure you to sign contracts for overpriced or ineffective equipment, such as $4,000 "solar blankets" or fake energy-saving plug-in devices that do nothing to reduce costs. Red Flags to Watch For How to spot
: Some scammers are only after your information. They may ask to see your energy bill to "verify eligibility," then use your account number to switch your provider without consent (known as "slamming") or steal your identity.
Protecting Your Home: Understanding the Energy Evaluation Scam
