Grand Junction Businesses Targeted by Telephone Scam

The Grand Junction Police Department is warning area businesses of a scam which cost a local restaurant more than $1000.

A man called the restaurant claiming that he worked for the local power company, and that the restaurant had a past due balance on its account. The scammer stated if the balance wasn’t paid within an hour, power would be shut off.

The scammer then provided instructions on how to pay the outstanding balance using pre-paid debits cards that can be purchased at area stores.

Although the scammer in this particular incident targeted a restaurant, the Grand Junction Police Department wants all business owners and homeowners to be aware of this scam. If you get a similar call, do not provide the caller with any information from any of your bank accounts or debit cards. Instead, hang up, call your power company using the phone number listed on your bill, and verify whether you owe any money.

If you believe you are a victim of this scam, you can pick up a fraud packet at the Grand Junction Police Department.