Blog: PECO "Pay Now" Scam Is Still Going Strong
By Jim Donovan: What I refer to as the Peco "Pay Now" scam seems to be resurfacing. I first reported on this last summer and while our 3 On Your Side consumer unit gets calls about the scam from time to time, this week we've received several inquiries from viewers who've been called.
Here's how the scam works: A customer gets a call from someone claiming to be with PECO. The caller threatens to shut off the utilities if the customer does not pay that day. The customer is then asked to load a Green Dot card with money and give the card information to the scammers so they can cash in.
If you get a call like this, hang up! In addition, PECO says you should never give your bank information over the phone unless you initiated the call.
The electric company also offers this advice:
•If someone from PECO calls you, they will know your name, address, account number and amount of your current balance.
•Never provide anyone with your social security number.
•Never provide anyone access to your home, unless they have proper identification.
•PECO workers will have a uniform and badge.
•Customers who are late on payments will receive several delinquent notices in the mail before their utilities are shut off.
•Anyone with questions should call 1-800-494-4000.
•If you believe a scammer has contacted you, report it to police and PECO at 1-800-494-4000.