Urgent notices left at homes mislead customers on safety of tap water
El Paso – Taking action against deceptive business practices and impersonation of a public servant, El Paso Water is joining forces with the El Paso Police Department, El Paso County Sheriff’s Department and the Better Business Bureau of El Paso to send a strong message to perpetrators.
Reports are multiplying about suspicious urgent notices left in customers’ mailboxes or doors, questioning the safety of their water. Also, some businesses have recently begun demanding “overdue payments” via a platform such as Cash App or gift card, misrepresenting themselves as El Paso Water or City of El Paso employees.
Impersonation is a third-degree felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine.
“We have seen an increase in these deceptive notices and practices meant to mislead our customers into buying unnecessary water filtration systems that cost up to $10,000,” said Christina Montoya, Marketing and Communications Manager. “We want to send a strong message to these perpetrators and raise awareness among our customers. We can assure you that your tap water is safe to drink.”
Law enforcement officials urge the public to remain vigilant and informed about local businesses.
“We want to urge citizens to verify, validate and confirm the businesses that you are working with,” said Commander Jerome Washington of the Sheriff’s Office. Outside the city limits, suspicious activity may be reported to the Sheriff’s Office at 915-832-4408.
“Don’t call the number that is on any of these flyers,” said Sgt. Javier Sambrano of the El Paso Police Department. “If something does not seem right, it’s probably not.” Suspicious activity may be reported to the police department at 915-832-4400.
El Paso has many honorable water filtration businesses, which operate ethically, said Marybeth Stevens, President of Better Business Bureau El Paso. Stevens urged the public to do their research if they decide to buy.
“Those urgent notices left at your home are meant to coerce you into buying something you don’t need,” Stevens said. “Ask for utility credentials and look for utility-issued employee badges and uniforms, as well as vehicles bearing the utility’s name and logo.” Questionable business practices and suspected fraud may be reported to the Better Business Bureau at https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker/reportscam.
Utility customers with questions or concerns about their water quality are urged to call the International Water Quality Laboratory at 915-594-5733.