Use Caution when Asked for Information over the Phone

June 16, 2009 - Erie Insurance has become aware of a telephone scam in which some of our Policyholders have been contacted by individuals claiming to represent an insurance company. The scammers claim that the victim’s insurance coverage is in danger of cancellation unless an immediate payment is made over the phone.

"A number of our Policyholders have been contacted," says Gene Robertson, supervisor of ERIE’s Investigative Services. "The callers never mention Erie Insurance specifically, so we believe this is just a general scam that is circulating around."

What can you do?

Never provide personal or financial information to someone who contacts you on the phone. Erie Insurance in particular will never contact you to request a payment in this manner. If there is a problem with your account, ERIE will contact you by mail. If you have any question about the status of your policy, you can contact your local ERIE agent.

In addition, you can access information about your account through ERIE's automated phone system. Have your policy number handy and call (800) 458-0811, option 9, to check on your balance and recent payments.

"If someone does contact you claiming to represent a company that you do business with, do not give out any personal or financial information," Robertson says. "Instead, hang up and call the company directly. If it appears that the call was a scam, contact your local police department."

Fraud prevention resources

To help safeguard your personal and financial information, refer to these tips:

With ERIE's Identity Recovery Coverage, you can have peace of mind knowing that if someone steals your identity, help is just a phone call away. Identity Recovery Coverage can be added to any ERIE home or mobile home policy. Contact your ERIE Agent to learn more about the coverage.

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