Submitted by Tricia Modifica
(November 13, 2023) — It’s a call or email threatening to shut off power. It’s a fake website hoping to trick people into believing it’s real. Scammers posing as Eversource representatives are using increasingly sophisticated and intimidating tactics to get money and personal information. In advance of Utilities United Against Scams Day, November 15, 2023, Eversource is urging its customers to be vigilant.
“These schemers have perfected their tactics. They apply enough pressure to make customers feel they don’t have time to check if the person is legitimate, and they pay,” said Founder of Utilities United Against Scams and Eversource Senior Vice President for Customer Operations and Digital Strategy, Jared Lawrence. “We remind customers, don’t be afraid to hang up or shut the door on someone if you suspect they’re attempting to scam you and then call us immediately at 800-286-2000 to verify the status of your account.”
As customers shop for third-party suppliers to lower their energy costs, another con to be aware of is people coming to the door and using deceptive marketing tactics to convince customers to switch energy suppliers. EnergizeCT.com is the only site to shop for energy in Connecticut.
With the busy holiday season right around the corner—a time when scam activity typically intensifies—here are some tips to help you stay safe:
Eversource representatives do not require the use of prepaid debit cards, such as Green Dot MoneyPak, Vanilla, or Reloadit. They also will never ask customers to pay using a Bitcoin ATM.
Eversource representatives never request that customers meet at a department or grocery store to make a payment.
Customers should never provide personal, financial, or account information to any unsolicited persons on the phone, at the door, or online, even if they seem legitimate.
Eversource does not solicit door-to-door or on the phone on behalf of third-party energy suppliers.
All Eversource employees carry photo identification; field workers wear clothing with the company logo and drive company vehicles.
Customers who are scheduled for disconnection due to non-payment receive written notice that includes information on how to maintain their service.
Customers who doubt a call, in-person interaction, text, or email is legitimate should call Eversource directly to confirm the authenticity of the contact.
Customers should not search for Eversource’s phone number or website through a search engine. You can find contact information, including the website, on your Eversource bill.
Be sure to visit Utilities United Against Scams for more tips and helpful information to stop scams.
