MCALLEN, Texas – The City of McAllen is warning the public about a scheme targeting merchants.
All McAllen residents and businesses are urged to be aware of someone posing as an AEP representative, stating that meters need to be changed for a $900 fee.
According to the release, victims are given a phone number that connects them to a fake AEP customer service representative, who states that they can give their bank information over the phone or pay the person in front of them to complete the service.
The city advises that merchants and residents should be aware that this is not AEP’s standard operating practice, and they do not take payments in person or over the phone.
Anyone with questions regarding their electric bill or service should contact their retail electric provider to the number on their monthly electricity bill, said the release.
Calling a number left on a phone message or provided by a person at the door may connect residents and merchants with the scammers.
Anyone contacted by one of these individuals is asked to contact the McAllen Police Department at 9-1-1.
The release adds, for safety, the public should not attempt to detain the individual.
