Scammers threaten small business owners with power shut off

Scammers are once again targeting Monmouth County small businesses by posing as representatives of JCP&L and threatening to shut off their power unless immediate payment is made via a pre-paid debit card, Green Dot card, MoneyPak card or gift card, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

Recent targets have included a salon, gym and and deli. The scam follows a line of fear and intimidation: you are advised you are past due on a bill, you are threatened with having your power shut-off, and you are given the opportunity to “pay” your bill within a brief period of time to avoid any embarrassment or work stoppages.

Prosecutor Gramiccioni reiterated that unfortunately Monmouth County has seen this scam before, but it is necessary to repeat and remind the public that no legitimate business will demand anyone make a payment over the phone using a pre-paid debit card.

Anthony Hurley, JCP&L Vice President of Operations has previously warned that the utility will not call or email to demand immediate payment or threaten imminent shutoff. JCP&L, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy, does not demand nor require payment over the phone via specific means, like using Green Dot cards or any other pre-paid debit card.

JCP&L employees typically only visit a home in response to a service request and employees also always carry photo identification, wear uniforms, and drive clearly marked vehicles, Hurley has warned. Anyone who suspects they have received a scam call should contact their local police department.

JCP&L also urges any customer who has doubts about a call from someone claiming to be from JCP&L, especially one demanding immediate payment, to call JCP&L’s customer service number at 1-800-662-3115.

JCP&L has an informative website to assist consumers with recognizing scams. Please visit https://www.firstenergycorp.com/scam-info