Delmarva Power continues to receive reports of scam activity in its service area.
One of the latest involves a caller claiming a rebate is available. In some cases, the caller ID will indicate that the message is from Delmarva Power.
Spokesman Jake Sneeden says the utility sees an increase in phone scams during the winter months and never offers rebates over the phone.
Delmarva also participates in Utilities United Against Scams Day in November and through social media and other channels.
Red flags, according to Sneeden, include:
- The scammer often becomes angry and tells a customer his or her account is past due and service will be shut off if a large payment isn’t made – usually within less than an hour.
- The scammer instructs the customer to purchase a prepaid debit or credit card – widely available at most retail stores – then call him or her back to make a payment.
- The scammer asks the customer for the prepaid card’s receipt number and PIN number, which grants instant access to the funds loaded to the card.
Also, keep the following in mind:
- Delmarva Power representatives will never ask or require a customer with a past due balance to purchase a prepaid debit card to avoid disconnection.
- Customers can make payments online, by phone, automatic bank withdrawal, mail, or in person.
- Customers with a past due balance will receive multiple shut off notifications – never a single notification one hour before disconnection.
- If a customer ever questions the legitimacy of the call, hang up and call Delmarva Power at 800-375-7117.
- Never provide your social security number or personal information to anyone initiating contact with you claiming to be a company representative or requesting you to send money to another person or entity other than Delmarva Power.
- Always ask to see a company photo ID before allowing any Delmarva Power worker into your home or business.
- Never make a payment for services to anyone coming to your door.
