Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday and the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection are warning residents to remain alert for scams following the recent winter storm and are offering guidance to help consumers manage utility and heating costs.
Attorney General Sunday said scammers often target residents after major storms and disaster-related events. He noted that consumers should stay vigilant and take time to review essential services for potential cost savings.
The Bureau of Consumer Protection advised consumers to verify that any contractor hired for storm-related repairs is legitimate by checking references, requesting proof of insurance, reading contracts carefully, and keeping copies. Consumers can verify whether a contractor is registered by contacting the Office of Attorney General’s Home Improvement Registration Hotline at 1-888-520-6680. Contractor registration does not constitute endorsement or approval by the Office.
Residents are also cautioned to watch for scammers posing as utility company representatives. There has been an increase in fraudulent attempts to obtain personal or banking information. Consumers should contact their utility company using the phone number listed on their official bill.
The Office advises consumers to avoid paying strangers using gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or person-to-person payment apps such as Zelle or Venmo. Credit cards are recommended because they may offer additional consumer protections.
Consumers are urged to be cautious of social media advertisements that promote emergency services or deeply discounted offers, including heating, snow removal, or utility services. Officials advise slowing down, questioning offers, and avoiding rushed payments.
For residents needing help with heating and electricity costs, Attorney General Sunday and the Office of Consumer Advocate recommend enrolling in budget billing programs to spread utility costs evenly throughout the year. Consumers are also encouraged to review their electric and natural gas supplier contracts and explore alternative suppliers if appropriate. Questions about utility shopping and supplier changes can be directed to the Office of Consumer Advocate at 1-800-684-6560.
Additional guidance includes weatherizing homes using low- or no-cost measures such as installing door sweeps, sealing doors and windows, caulking cracks, and insulating electric hot water heaters. Information on weatherization assistance is available through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
Residents may also apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provides grants ranging from $200 to $1,000 based on household size, income, and heating type. Applications opened December 3, 2025, and will remain open through April 10, 2026. Applicants do not need to be facing a utility shutoff to qualify.
Consumers are encouraged to contact their utility providers directly, using contact information from official bills, to ask about company-specific assistance programs, including customer assistance, usage reduction, and hardship programs.
