The 861 area code is currently associated with scams promising PSE&G rate reductions. Callers ask for your account information under the guise of lowering your monthly energy bill.
Look up any suspicious number using our scam and spam phone number lookup database. It includes over 29 million Do Not Call and robocall complaints reported to the Federal Trade Commission.
Getting calls from 861 area code and wonder if it's a scam? You're not alone. Scammers frequently spoof Illinois (Peoria, Bloomington, Normal) phone numbers to trick you into answering. Here is the most common area code 861 scam based on user comments data:
Callers from the 861 area code are targeting New Jersey residents, claiming you requested a call to lower your electricity bill. They often already have your name and address and will persistently call, sometimes dozens of times, to get you to switch. However, victims who checked with PSE&G discovered the offered rate was actually "considerably higher" than their current one.
PSE&G does not cold-call customers with unsolicited rate reduction offers. These callers are typically aggressive third-party suppliers trying to trick you into switching your service to a more expensive plan, a practice known as "slamming."
"this number called me telling me i can lower my electricity bill. they claim that i had requested this, which i did not! i called the electric company and found out that the rate they offered me is considerably higher than what i'm paying to pse&g!"
Frequently Asked Questions about Area Code 201 Scams and Spam Calls
No, area code 861 is not a scam. It's a legitimate telephone area code serving millions of legitimate residents and businesses in Illinois, United States. Area code 861 is a general purpose code that has been in service since February 24, 2023.
Most common 861 scam types are:
You're likely experiencing "Neighbor Spoofing." Scammers fake their caller ID to display local or familiar numbers. If you live in or near Illinois, or have a 861 phone number yourself, scammers know you're more likely to answer what appears to be a local call.
Calling back to unknown spam number may incur premium charges or at least confirm your phone number is active and lead to more spam and scam calls.
There are three main ways to reduce spam calls:
It's definitely possible to block all specific area code phone numbers. However, we do not recommend this option because it would also prevent friends, family, doctors, and legitimate businesses from reaching you.
Other Illinois area codes where scam and spam calls are regularly reported: