Press Release

PUC to Study Protections from Identity Theft

Published on 7/23/2004

Filed under: Electric Gas Water and Wastewater Telecommunications Transportation and Safety

            HARRISBURG – The PUC opened a proceeding today to examine whether the agency’s current regulations and policies adequately protect against identity theft.

            “The issue of identity theft as it relates to utilities and utility regulation warrants a more comprehensive review,” Commissioner Wendell F. Holland said in a motion passed 5-0. “For the victims of identity theft, the recovery from damage and the tainting of one’s financial reputation may be a slow, arduous and time-consuming process. Often, repair to a victim’s credit reputation and financial condition takes years.  For the utility, identity theft frequently results in uncollected charges for utility service as well as utility resources expended in attempts to collect unpaid bills.”

            As part of the investigation, the PUC will seek comments from the public, the state Office of Consumer Advocate, state Office of Small Business Advocate, Attorney General’s Office and utilities.

            Identity theft results in losses for both utilities and their customers, and last year alone, utility fraud made up 21 percent of identity theft cases reported in Pennsylvania, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The agency reports that nearly 10 million people have been victims of some form of identity theft, resulting in nearly $48 billion in losses to businesses and nearly $5 billion in losses to its victims. In Pennsylvania, phone or utility fraud is second only to credit card fraud.

            The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as stewards of competition.

            For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our internet homepage at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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