PSE&G, Police Warn Of New Phone Scam

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ – Police are urging residents to be aware of the latest scam to strike the Garden State.

On Friday, Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) issued a warning that scammers have spoofed one of the utility company’s phone numbers in an effort to steal personal information.

According to PSE&G, some residential and business customers in New Jersey reported that the scam artists asked for personal details, including information related to debit and credit cards, to conduct meter readings or add discounts to utility bills.

“These calls are NOT being made by us- it is a possible scam,” PSE&G wrote on its Facebook page.

During the calls, individuals claiming to be PSE&G employees demand payment within a few hours using a pre-paid debit card or threaten to shut off service, according to the utility company.

A few police departments, such as Fair Lawn, have fielded complaints about the scam.

Sgt. Brian Metzler said that fortunately "no money was exchanged, as the victim contacted us before paying."

PSE&G also issued a few reminders

• PSE&G offers a variety of payment options and would never require a specific type of payment.
• Customers scheduled for disconnection due to nonpayment receive written notice on their bill at least 15 days in advance.
• PSE&G will never ask for personal information over the phone unless you initiated the contact.
• If you ever doubt the legitimacy of a call from PSE&G, especially if payment is demanded, hang up and call at 1-800-436-7734
• For more information about scams and frauds visit http://spr.ly/6186EFuay