A man posing as a PECO employee has been trying to scam sensitive personal information from residents of the 7th Police District, according to Philadelphia police Capt. Joseph Zaffino.
In a message distributed Dec. 6 through the ReadyNotifyPA system, Zaffino — the commanding officer of the 7th district — warned residents about the scam artist and advised them to call 911 immediately if they see him. Residents should not confront the man.
The unknown man has been active in the Somerton section, specifically in the area of Philmont Avenue, at least since Dec. 1, according to reports received by police.
The man has been described as a “young black male” wearing a suit and tie, along with a “PECO badge,” police say. Witnesses also have described him as “well-groomed” and “educated.”
Typically, he knocks on the door of a home, identifies himself as a PECO employee and asks to inspect the resident’s latest PECO invoice. He tells the resident that the bill may contain excessive charges, which he can have reversed.
According to Zaffino, PECO or other utility companies generally do not solicit door-to-door. So any unscheduled visits should cause suspicion. Residents should not engage in conversation with the man and, after calling 911, may wish to contact their utility company to report the incident. ••
