Officials Warn About Phone Scam From Alleged PSE&G Employees

Mercer County officials  are warning residents about a telephone scam in which individuals pretending to be PSE&G employees threaten to shut off electric or gas service if payment is not made that day.

The callers demand that customers make a payment within hours using a Green Dot Money Pak, a type of pre-paid card available at pharmacies and convenience stores. PSE&G offers a variety of payment options but does not accept these cards. PSE&G customers scheduled for disconnection due to nonpayment receive written notice on their bill at least 10 days in advance, according to the utility.

“Residents need to be alert to this type of scam,” County Executive Brian Hughes said. “If you receive a suspicious phone call, please hang up and contact the Mercer County Division of Consumer Affairs immediately.”  

There have been reports of this telephone scam in various parts of the state, although the Mercer County Division of Consumer Affairs has not yet received any such cases.

The Mercer County Division of Consumer Affairs can be reached at 609-989-6671; PSE&G can be reached at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).