Community Corner

ComEd Urges Customers to be Aware of Utility Scams

Commonwealth Edison says fraudulent activities typically increase after major storms and natural disasters.

Information provided by Commonwealth Edison. 

ComEd is warning customers to be on the alert for scam artists who increase their activity after major storms and other natural disasters. Following the recent storm that knocked out power to more than 300,000 customers, ComEd experienced an increase in calls about two current scams that could cost customers money and valuable personal information. 

  • Individuals professing to be from utility companies are claiming that there are federal programs that will pay electric bills. People are being asked to provide their social security numbers in exchange for fake bank routing numbers that can be used to make payments. 
  • Individuals claiming to be from utility companies are telling customers that they need to make an immediate payment or their service will be disconnected. They ask the customer to purchase a gift credit card and call back with the card information to make the payment. 

Scammers may call or come to your home. Representatives from ComEd always carry proper identification and never ask customers for cash or personal financial information.  Customers can verify if a ComEd worker is in the area or whether a caller is an employee by calling 1-800-EDISON1.  Customers can avoid being scammed by taking a few precautions: 

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  • Never provide your social security or personal information to anyone initiating contact with you claiming to be a ComEd representative or requesting you to send money to another person or entity other than ComEd. 
  • Always ask to see a company photo ID before allowing any utility worker into your home or business.
  • Be skeptical of individuals wearing clothing with old or defaced company logos. If you have any doubts, ask to see a company photo ID.  If you are at all concerned or suspicious that the individual may not be from ComEd, call 1-800-EDISON1.
  • Never make payment for services to anyone coming to your door.

Customers approached for this kind of personal information, or who believe they may be a victim of a scam, should report the incident to their local police.

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