Delmarva Power reminds everyone to avoid Green Dot scam

Delmarva Power reminds home and business owners to practice safety when someone claiming to represent a business contacts them either in person or by telephone, especially during the holiday season.

Recently, Delmarva Power has been alerted to a “Green Dot” scam. As such, information from law enforcement officials and other utilities has indicated that scammers are targeting not only residents, but also commercial businesses.

It has been reported that scammers are telling business owners that the location's electric service account is delinquent and it will be shut-off for non-payment unless the business purchases a "Green Dot Money Pack" for a specific amount dictated by the scammer from stores including CVS, Rite Aid and WaWa. Victims are then given instructions to call a scammer telephone number with the card’s account number and pin. Once the scammer obtains the card’s identifying information, the value is then downloaded, swept and stolen. These transactions are untraceable.

Many companies, including Delmarva Power, will contact customers in person or via phone for various reasons. If someone claims to represent a company, whether the company is Delmarva Power or another entity, it is important that customers take precautions to verify the person is affiliated with the company, especially if that person is requesting an immediate monetary payment.

When addressing past due accounts Delmarva Power never endorses a specific form of payment. Instead, multiple payment options are always given to the customer.

Delmarva Power advises customers to ask for official photo identification from any person who shows up at their door. Employees from reputable companies, such as Delmarva Power, will carry official company identification cards. If proper identification cannot be produced, customers should notify police and the company with whom the individual claims to be associated.

Similarly, if someone calls saying they represent a certain company, customers should ask them to verify their identity and affiliation. If customers have any doubt about the validity of a person’s claim to represent Delmarva Power, they should call the company immediately at 1-800-375-7117 and an official Delmarva representative will gladly assist.

For more information about Delmarva Power, go to www.delmarva.com. The mobile app is available at www.delmarva.com/mobileapp.