State police warn of utility scams across Pennsylvania

ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) — Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) are warning residents about utility scams and bogus websites intended to get their information and money.

Residents are warned to be vigilant when starting new services and/or paying their bills online. Renters should speak to their landlord about the utility companies in their area.

State police advise to not click on any links via text that claim you have an outstanding bill. If you suspect something isn’t right, you can request a copy of your bill be mailed to your address. According to state police, these links will often look legitimate but are far from it.

Troopers added that while not all sites are fake, they want residents to remain vigilant so they aren’t scammed or robbed.

Normally, a member of the utility team will have to come in person to turn the power or gas on to the home.

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While Pennsylvania allows you to choose your service providers, residents should also be wary of information you give to anyone going door to door to try and get you to switch providers.

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