BALTIMORE, MD – BGE officials say they have seen a recent increase in reports of individuals calling BGE customers and falsely claiming their electric or gas service will be disconnected unless payment is made.

These impersonators instruct customers to buy a prepaid credit card and call back to a different phone number with the personal identification number (PIN) or other personal information.

They also use a tactic called “spoofing” to manipulate the Caller ID displayed phone number so that it appears as a BGE number. BGE also cautions customers to be mindful of individuals who try to gain access to their homes by posing as utility workers. Utility impostors may carry “official” looking credentials and often work in pairs.
Remember

BGE says representatives will never call you to ask you for cash or request that you purchase a prepaid credit card to make a payment on your bill. Anyone with concerns about the status of their account should call BGE’s Customer Service line at 1-800-685-0123.

Residents should also never open their doors to someone they do not recognize. Be sure to ask for a photo ID through a window. All BGE employees and contractors carry company ID badges displaying their name, photograph, and identification number. To verify an employee’s identity or work being done, customers should call BGE at 1- 800-685-0123.

Anyone who believes they have been the target of a phone scam should report the suspicious activity to the police.

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