Who calls from (201) 623-4680? Reported 8 times from New Jersey

About (201) 623-4680

"We've been trying to reach you about your overdue utility bill, and if you don't pay now, we'll have to disconnect your service."

This is how the scammer starts the conversation, trying to create a sense of urgency and panic. They claim to be from a utility company, such as an electric or gas provider, and state that the listener's bill is overdue. The scammer will often use a combination of high-pressure sales tactics and fake threats to try to convince the victim to pay immediately.

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The scammer will typically ask the victim to pay using a gift card, such as an iTunes or Google Play card, or to purchase a prepaid debit card. They may also ask for the victim's bank account or credit card information, claiming that this is necessary to process the payment. However, in reality, the scammer simply wants to steal the victim's money or sensitive financial information.

Before making the ask, the scammer will often try to build trust with the victim. They may claim to have the victim's account information, including their address and account balance, in an attempt to make the call seem legitimate. They may also use psychological manipulation, such as stating that the victim's neighbors have already paid their bills, in an attempt to create a sense of social proof.

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how the scammer gains the victim's trust

The scammer will often start by asking the victim to confirm their identity, such as by providing their name and address. They may also ask the victim to verify their account information, such as their account number or balance. This is all an attempt to make the victim feel like the call is legitimate and that the scammer has access to their account information.

Once the scammer has gained the victim's trust, they will make the ask. This is usually a request for payment, and the scammer will often try to create a sense of urgency by stating that the payment must be made immediately. They may also use high-pressure sales tactics, such as stating that the victim will face additional fees or penalties if they do not pay right away.

In reality, a real utility company would never ask a customer to pay using a gift card or prepaid debit card. They would also never threaten to disconnect service without first sending a series of notices and warnings. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from a utility company and they ask you to pay using a gift card or prepaid debit card, it is likely a scam.

A real organization would send a formal notice or warning before disconnecting service, and would never ask for payment using an unusual method. They would also provide the customer with a clear and transparent explanation of their account balance and any outstanding fees or charges.