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SCAM ALERT: Police warn of solar panel and energy service scam in Bedford

WSET · last updated

BEDFORD, Va. (WSET) — The Bedford Police Department is warning residents of a scam circulating in the area.

According to the department, the scammer will call and falsely claim to be working directly with local utility providers, including the Bedford Electric Department, and offer solar panel installations and “energy savings” programs.

“Earlier today, an officer spoke with one of these callers and quickly confirmed the call was fraudulent,” said BPD. “The individual was unable to provide legitimate information about the company they claimed to represent and offered incorrect details regarding electricity buy-back programs, government incentives and related laws.”

SEE ALSO: Bedford County man pleads guilty to child sex crimes charges

Police say these scammers use misleading cost and savings claims and other deceptive practices to obtain victims’ personal and financial information.

BPD encourages all residents to stay alert and to never share any personal information over the phone or online.

If you think you’ve been targeted by this scam, you can also contact your utility company for clarification of any claims made by the caller.

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