Deerfield Police Warn of Phone Scam

The following is from the Deerfield Police Department:

The Deerfield Police Department along with surrounding communities have received several
reports from businesses involving a current phone scam where someone claims to be from
ComEd and tells the business owner they need to make an immediate payment or their service
will be disconnected. The caller asks the customer to purchase a prepaid credit card and call back
with the card information to make the payment. We have seen an increase in these calls targeting
businesses but residents should also be on alert.

ComEd is reminding customers that representatives from ComEd never ask customers for
prepaid credit card numbers or personal financial information.

ComEd also said delinquent customers that are scheduled for disconnection will receive an automated phone call days prior the disconnection with the amount owed to avoid service interruption. Additionally, Illinois Administrative Code requires customers receive a hard-copy disconnection notice in the mail.

Residents should be aware that scammers could call or come to your home claiming to be
representatives of any utility company. If anyone approaches your home they should present
proper identification and never ask customers for cash or personal financial information.
Customers could verify if a worker is in the area or by calling the company directly. Residents
can avoid being scammed by taking a few precautions:

 Always ask to see a company photo ID before allowing any utility worker into your home
or business. Be skeptical of individuals wearing clothing with old or defaced company
logos. If you are at all concerned or suspicious that the individual may not be from who
they say they are, call the company in question.
 Never provide your social security number or personal financial information to anyone
initiating contact with you.
 Never make a payment to someone who comes to your door.