NJ Residents Warned Of Scammers Posing As Utility Workers

NEW JERSEY — State authorities are warning New Jersey residents of an ongoing scam where criminals pose as utility workers to gain access to homes and steal the owner's belongings.

In a news release, officials with the New Jersey Utilities Association and the state’s police chiefs association said the typical scam involves two people who knock on the front door, claiming to be utility workers. One of the fake workers distracts the resident while the other robs the home of money or valuable items.

State officials said the scammers use excuses, such as discussing an allegedly overdue bill and demanding cash, checking water and sewer lines, or taking a water sample.

Officials said police have seen a "steady stream" of victims reporting that fake workers are finding ways to gain access to their homes and steal their belongings.

“The police chiefs have a strong message for residents: If you have not been contacted by your utility, please do not open the door for strangers," Mitch Sklar, executive director for the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, said in a statement. "Unless there is a true emergency, it is extremely rare for utility service technicians to visit customers without a confirmed appointment. Always check these workers for identification and never give them money."

State officials said New Jersey residents should follow these guidelines to protect themselves from this type of scam:

• If you suspect someone may be a utility imposter, close and lock your door, and immediately call 911. You should also contact your utility company and confirm whether service work is scheduled in your neighborhood.
• Always ask for a company-issued photo ID. All utility employees in New Jersey carry company-issued photo ID badges.
• Look for the corporate logo. All service personnel wear uniforms and drive company-branded vehicles with the company logo. At times, utilities use contracted services from other established companies, and those companies also have branded vehicles and identification.
• Do not share your utility account numbers or other personal information. Legitimate technicians will not ask for this.
• Note the time. Technicians usually work regular business hours. If you are getting a knock at the door late at night or on weekends, and there is no apparent emergency, assume it is a scam.
• Never give money. Utility workers never collect money or credit card information from customers in the field.