City warns residents about utility scams after woman attacked

Pittsburgh city officials are warning residents to be on the lookout for scammers posing as utility workers.

Two women told police a man identifying himself as a representative of an electric company attempted to force his way into a West Oakland home Tuesday morning.

Tonight on 11 at 11, she talks only to Channel 11 about the terrifying ordeal.

The attempted home invasion happened along Moultrie Street around 10:30 a.m.

According to police, a scammer rang the doorbell of the grandmother’s home.

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The victim said he was even wearing a green vest and holding a clipboard.

Police said he told the woman she needed to sign a form because he alleged he just checked the meter.

That’s when the victim says the man tried pushing his way into the home.

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A struggle followed and he eventually ran away.

The victim told Channel 11 she saw her life flash before her.

Police and Duquesne Light said the man was not a utility worker. They said he was in a white SUV with two other people.

No arrests have been made.

A Duquesne Light spokesperson gave the following tips to keep in mind if someone claims to be a utility worker trying to get into their home:

• Always ask to see employee identification.
• Look for a company logo on the person's uniform and vehicle.
• Call the utility company to verify the person's identification. A legitimate worker won't mind waiting while you verify their employment information. The utility company will be able to tell you whether the person is an employee and whether they've dispatched a service call to your home or neighborhood.
• If you suspect the person is an imposter, contact local law enforcement.
  

Cox Media Group