Scammers Target Electric And Gas Customers In New York: DCP

GLEN COVE, NY — Scammers pretending to be from utility companies are calling New Yorkers, claiming customers have an outstanding account balance, asking for personal information, and demanding money, the state said.

These scammers pretend to be from New York electric and gas companies and threaten to turn off customers' service unless they receive payment, a news release from the New York State Division of Consumer Protection and Department of Public Service said. The news release said scammers claim customers have an outstanding balance, and often request money be sent to them via a money transfer app or in the form of a gift card.

"Utilities give repeated notices prior to terminations including reaching out to consumers with past due balances by phone to offer payment options," the Division of Consumer Protection said in a news release. "However, utilities do not specify that the payment must be a prepaid card or other non-traceable money transfer. If someone demands payment via non-traceable method, consumers just need to pull the plug on these scams by hanging up the phone and reporting the calls."

The New York DCP said consumers should "never give out personal information such as account numbers, Social Security numbers, date of birth, mother's maiden names, passwords or other identifying information in response to unexpected calls or if they are at all suspicious."

If residents are worried they owe money, the DCP said, they should call the utility company directly using the number on their bill or the utility company website. If a message comes via text, the state said, do not respond.

And, if residents suspect a scammer has called them, they may file a complaint with the Division of Consumer Protection here.