BRIDGEWATER — With a recent increase in scam attempts announced by Eversource, Town Manager Michael Dutton and Police Chief Christopher D. Delmonte wish to warn the public to be vigilant of scammers posing as bill collectors.
According to Eversource, customers have reported receiving calls from someone claiming to be from Eversource and using a real employee’s name offering a discount on their electric bill. Customers have also reported receiving an email that contains the Eversource logo.
Utility scam attempts also often involve a caller threatening to disconnect a customer’s electric or gas service because of an unpaid bill and demanding immediate payment. All are deceptive tactics scammers use in an attempt to steal someone’s money and sensitive personal information.
Eversource reports that throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, scammers have increased their calls, texts, emails and in-person visits to convince people to make payments to avoid service disconnection.
Eversource is offering the following tips to help avoid becoming a victim:
- Eversource representatives never demand instant payment over the phone, require the use of pre-paid debit cards or request customers meet at a payment center to make the payment.
- Never provide personal financial or account information to any unsolicited person on the phone, at the door or online, even if they seem legitimate.
- Beware – some sophisticated scammers can manipulate their caller ID to say the caller is with Eversource.
- Customers who are scheduled for disconnection due to nonpayment receive a written notice that includes information on how to maintain their service.
- Customers can verify they are speaking with an Eversource representative by asking for some basic information about their account like the name on the account, the account address, and the exact past due balance.
Customers are encouraged to contact Eversource at 800-592-2000 if they receive a call, email or if someone shows up at their door to verify that it’s Eversource.
Any Bridgewater resident who believes they have been victimized by a scammer is encouraged to contact the Bridgewater Police Department at 508-697-6118.
For more information on how to protect personal information and avoid becoming a victim of utility scams, visit Eversource.com or Utilities United Against Scams.
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