Potential Fraudulent Activity in our Community

Notice of Fraudulent Activity

Potential Fraudulent Activity in our Community

October 26, 2020: Lakewood Water District has recently received reports from
customers of potential fraud activity in our community. Protect yourself and your
community by learning how to identify a fraudulent act or situation and what to do if you
believe you have been exposed to fraudulent activity.

What has been reported to us is, a male arrived in front of a customer’s house
in a small gray pickup truck with the words “Lakewood Water District” on it. He
approached the home here in Lakewood asking to have access to their garage to check
for a leak. The customer did not feel comfortable and refused. This happened on two
separate occasions on two separate days.

The Lakewood Police Department was contacted, and they ask that anyone who might
witness or be exposed to this type of situation or activity to call the Lakewood Police
Department right away at 253/830-5000.

Lakewood Water District does not perform random leak detection home visits. If we
suspect you have a leak, we will call and/or send a written notice.

LAKEWOOD WATER DISTRICT WILL…
Lakewood Water District will never call or email demanding immediate payment. The
District follows specific protocols when notifying a customer of turn off of water service.

We will…

  • NEVER call, email, or make a home visit demanding immediate payment
  • NEVER call, email, or make a home visit requesting financial information (credit card, SSN, bank info)
  • NEVER request payment on a pre-paid or gift card
  • NEVER shut off service for non-payment or regulatory non-compliance without providing notification 48 hours (about two days) in advance
  • Offer several payment alternatives to our customers

All District personnel…

  • Have an identification badge and will happily provide it upon request
  • Will arrive in an official blue Lakewood Water District vehicle with exempt plates and bearing the Lakewood Water District Logo
  • Have official Lakewood Water District Apparel
  • Offer several payment alternatives to our customers

YOU CAN PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SCAMS BY….

  • Signing up for Xpress Bill Pay to see your current bill and make and schedule secure payments online
  • Signing up for the Water Usage Portal to keep track of your water usage
  • Calling our office during normal business hours, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 253.588.4423 if you ever have a question about a potential fraud.
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