Great Falls residents warned about utility scam targeting elderly

GREAT FALLS, Mont. – The Great Falls Police Department has issued a warning to residents about a utility scam targeting elderly community members.

According to the department, two men in their 20s to 30s have been posing as utility workers. They wear bright orange vests but lack any city logo or uniform. These individuals refuse to properly identify themselves and have been seen walking around without an associated vehicle.

The scammers reportedly tell residents they have leaks or broken pipes and encourage them to hire specific people for repairs. They also ask for payment for "fire hydrant usage/leaks" or "standing water in their gutters."

The Utilities Department has confirmed that there is no evidence of leaks in the accounts of those approached.

Official city utility workers wear neon yellow or blue shirts or jackets with a logo and drive vehicles with the same logo. Legitimate private utility companies also typically have logoed attire and vehicles.

Residents are urged to get a good description of anyone approaching them with similar claims and to verify authenticity by calling the Utilities Department at 406-727-7660.

If anyone has fallen victim to the scam or believes they may be a target, they should contact the non-emergency number at 406-455-8599 to file a report.