Fake Utility Scam Hits Main Line Business, Nearly $1,200 Stolen

Scams continue to plague the Main Line area, as a Main Line business was the victim of a "power shut-off" scam recently and this effectively had nearly $1,200 stolen from it through the scam.

According to Tredyffrin Township Police, a small business in Tredyffrin reported to police Tuesday morning of the "power shut-off" scam of which they were victims.

Police said the business unfortunately was scammed out of nearly $1,200 before police were notified.

While a business was targeted in this instance, police said the scam is known to target individuals, as well.

Police said the scam entails a caller posing as an electric utility company worker who says the victim's power will be shut off unless the victim pays up immediately.

The victim is told to use a pre-paid debit card or a money transfer to pay the caller, according to police.

The number from which the scam calls originate will often be manipulated to look like the utility company's phone number, police said.

"Remember: Utility company representatives will NEVER call you to ask you for cash or request that you use one of the methods described above to make a payment," police said in a Facebook post.

Police also provided a link to information on "power shut-off" cams, courtesy of FirstEnergy. See the tips and informational details from FirstEnergy online here.

Image via Shutterstock