BALTIMORE, MD—BGE officials say they’ve recently seen increases in reports where scammers attempt to use the COVID-19 pandemic to trick utility customers.

BGE says these individuals call customers and falsely claim that 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.

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

“Never open your door to someone you do not recognize,” BGE officials said in a statement. “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 a BGE employee’s identity or work being done, call us at 1- 800-685-0123.”

More information is available in the video below.