Utility Scammers Using Crafty Tactics To Rip Bucks County Residents Off

They're baaaack.

Utility scammers, that is.

That's according to police in Bucks County who say they've been made aware these scammers are again trolling for unsuspecting victims over the phone.

Northampton Township Police say they've received reports of such scam attempts, which include a threat for money or your gas or electricity will be shut off.

Scammers are using some deceptive tactics to obtain money from their victims.

In fact, the scammers are so crafty, they've even managed to make he name PECO show up on your caller ID display, according to police.

Here's one way to determine a fishy, scam-like attempt: utilities won't stay on the phone while you drive to a store to purchase a money order or debit cards, police say.

Here are a few tips from PECO on how to avoid becoming the next phone scam victim:

• If customers receive a call from someone stating they are calling to collect a bill payment for PECO, the caller should be able to provide specific information including account name, address and number.
• If the caller cannot provide this information, it is likely the call is not coming from PECO. In this case, customers should not provide any information, and call the company immediately at 1-800-494-4000 to report the situation.
• Never provide your social security number, or banking or credit card information via the phone, unless you have initiated the call.
• Never provide anyone access to your home who claims to be from PECO, or a contractor working for PECO, unless the person has proper identification. Customers can always contact the company at 1-800-494-4000 to confirm an official visit.

And one final word of advice from police: "As always, if a suspicious person comes to your door, call 9-1-1."