The Hazard Police Department is reporting a scam alert in the area. Individuals and business in the area reported receiving phone calls from people presenting themselves as AEP employees attempting to collect money to prevent their electricity from being disconnected. One report had two men wearing hard hats, AEP shirts, and reflective vests going into a Hazard hotel and informing an employee they were there to disconnect their electrical service unless a payment was made immediately. The hotel employees complied and provided a prepaid debit card to the two imposters with nearly $6,000. AEP says neither they or Kentucky Power will contact customers demanding immediate payment in the form of a prepaid debit card or face disconnection. If customers receive suspicious, urgent, or demanding calls from someone claiming to be with Kentucky Power or AEP, contact local law enforcement or the toll free number on their bill. Hazard Police is working with AEP to identify the individuals responsible for the crime.