RAMAPO, N.Y. — The Ramapo Police Department is warning residents about a phone scam in which callers pose as representatives from Orange & Rockland Utilities and pressure victims into making immediate payments.
Police say they have received multiple reports over the past week from residents who were contacted by scammers claiming there was an overdue utility bill on their account. The callers allegedly demanded payment using gift cards and warned that electric or gas service would be shut off if payment was not made right away.
Authorities emphasized that these claims are false.
Orange & Rockland Utilities does not demand payment through gift cards, nor does the company threaten immediate service shutoffs during unsolicited phone calls, officials said.
Residents who receive suspicious calls are advised to hang up and verify the status of their account by contacting the utility company directly using the official phone number listed on their bill or on the company’s website.
Police expressed concern that scammers are exploiting cold weather conditions and using fear to pressure residents into acting quickly. Officials urged residents to remain alert and to share the warning with family members, neighbors, and vulnerable individuals, including seniors.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimized by this scam is encouraged to report the incident to the Ramapo Police Department or your local police department.