BUFFALO, N.Y . (WKBW) — NYSEG is alerting their customers to a new round of scam attempts that are targeting New Yorkers over the phone.
NYSEG says they have been fielding reports from customers of suspected scammers who claim to be employees or consultants of the company. Some of the calls even feature forged caller ID numbers.
Customers say the scammers are threatening to cut of electricity service unless payments are made via prepaid debit cards like "Green Dot" cards. In some cases, the callers seem to have specific knowledge about the customers they are targeting and will provide a callback number that spoofs a recorded greeting like that of NYSEG's customer service line. NYSEG says they would not be contacting customers in that manner to notify of service termination and would never ask customers to specifically pay their balance using prepaid debit cards.
Some customers have also reported that some "bad actors" are attempting door-to-door style scams, posing as meter-readers.
Contractors working for NYSEG will always carry proper identification and customers who question whether or not the visit is legitimate are encouraged to call the companies’ customer service number at 1-800-572-1111.'
Here are some helpful tips:
· NYSEG and RG&E accept a variety of payment methods, and Customer Care representatives will work with individual customers to help them pay down outstanding balances and maintain service. The companies will never demand customers to purchase debit cards such as Green Dot cards to make payments.
· If unsure of the identity of the caller, ask for the last five digits of the account. If they do not have this information, hang up and alert local authorities. Never give out personal or account information to a caller.
· NYSEG and RG&E employees and contractors carry company-issued photo ID with a unique employee number. Ask for ID before providing personal or account information or granting access to your property. If you are not certain, call to confirm using the number on your bill or the company’s website.
· Be suspicious of unexpected emails from NYSEG or RG&E, especially if you’re not an eBill customer, and think twice before clicking links.
