MANCHESTER, NH ā Eversource is renewing its warning that scams targeting utility customers across the country continue to affect customers right here in New Hampshire. While some scams include impersonators trying to obtain account information or entry into customers’ homes, others include scammers falsely telling residents and businesses their utility company will shut off their power unless payment is made immediately.
While the scammers keep changing the scenario they pressure customers into making hasty, often large payments to keep the power on, the scheme to get the money remains basically the same. A caller tells the targeted customer the only way to keep the power on is to pay quickly using an untraceable pre-paid debit card (such as the Green Dot MoneyPak card or Vanilla Reload Network card.) Or, in the case of some business customers, payment is demanded by making a Western Union money transfer.
“These scams work by panicking customers and catching them off guard, hoping they’ll ignore their better judgment and make a quick cash payment,” said Penni Conner, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at Eversource. “If any of our customers suspect someone is impersonating a representative of Eversource on the phone or in-person, even if they show identification, please contact us immediately or call the local police.”
Eversource representatives never demand instant payment over the phone and don’t require the use of pre-paid debit cards. Customers can verify they are speaking with an Eversource representative by asking for some basic information about their account. Eversource customer service representatives will always be able to verify the name on the account, the account address, and the exact past due balance.
Eversource has several convenient payment options for customers who are experiencing financial difficulty, including a list of authorized retailers for those who wish to pay in person. Ā Eversource urges anyone who has any doubts about a call, a visit or an offer, to contact the company directly at 1-800-662-7764. Additional information about scams targeting utility customers is posted on our website.
