HARRISBURG, PA — AARP Pennsylvania is urging residents, especially those over 50, to stay vigilant as utility-related scams surge across the state. The warning follows a sharp increase in impostor fraud schemes, which were the most reported scam category to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in 2024.
These scams typically involve criminals posing as utility representatives, threatening immediate service disconnection or offering fake refunds to trick individuals into making payments. Scammers often demand payment through non-traceable methods such as gift cards, cryptocurrency, or prepaid debit cards.
Earlier this year, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) issued a statewide alert after receiving more than 70 calls in a single day about impostors falsely claiming to represent PUC Philadelphia offices. In these cases, scammers told consumers that a service switch had been detected and demanded an immediate cancellation fee to prevent disconnection. The PUC stressed that it does not call consumers to collect payment or threaten immediate shutoff.
“A utility provider will never cut off service in minutes or demand payment via gift cards or crypto,” said Mary Bach, AARP Pennsylvania Volunteer and Chair of the Consumer Issues Task Force. “If someone calls demanding immediate payment, hang up and call the number on your bill.”
AARP Pennsylvania advises consumers to remain calm and verify any suspicious communication by calling the customer service number listed on their utility bill. They caution against sharing personal financial information or making payments using unconventional methods. Suspicious calls should be reported to the utility provider, the PUC Bureau of Consumer Services at 1-800-692-7380, local law enforcement, or the FTC.
Scammers continue to evolve their tactics, using phony energy audits, fake equipment inspections, or forged payment websites to deceive consumers. They often prey on fear and urgency, manipulating victims into disclosing sensitive information such as bank details or Social Security numbers. In some cases, scammers have even posed as inspectors after storms or disasters, demanding fees to reconnect services.
As utility fraud continues to rise, AARP Pennsylvania’s alert serves as a critical reminder for consumers to stay cautious and informed.
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