Know the warning signs of new phone scam in Ocean City

OCEAN CITY, N.J. (WTXF) - Ocean City police have released a statement warning local residents and businesses of several accounts of phone scams in the area.

Police say the scam was previously attempted over this last winter and affected multiple Ocean City residence.

The scam has been reported as a phone call from an "Atlantic City Electric" representative.

The caller proceeds to tell the victim that they are behind on their bill and their outstanding balance must be paid within 24 hours or their power will be cut off.

Reports say the victim is then instructed to go to Rite Aid or CVS and purchase a "Money Pak" and is provided a return number to call back. Once the Money Pak is purchased, the victim should call back and read the number off the Money Pak and the scam will be complete.

Officials would like to inform the public that some of these call have a caller ID as "Atlantic City Electric" however the electric company does not request any payment in this way.

The scammers are praying on the victim's fear that their power will be shot off. Before you send any money over the phone, you should always call the appropriate number listed for your utility company to know your true balance.

If you are someone you know has become a victim to this type of scam, please call police.