Security

Spot the Scam

We urge customers to be wary of scammers posing as representatives of trusted energy companies.

Scammers have successfully defrauded energy customers by requesting cryptocurrency payments over the phone after posing as an energy company. Customers have also been asked by scammers to travel to specific locations to pay their bills.

Signs of a scam

Customers should verify all information before making payments over the phone, and should recognize the following red flags:

• It doesn’t add up: UI, SCG, and CNG don’t call customers for payment if the account is in good standing. 
• Timing and urgency: If a customer falls behind on payments, customers will receive a notice with a specific disconnection date, and will have an opportunity to pay or enter a payment arrangement before disconnection. AVANGRID’s companies do not disconnect service on Fridays, weekends, State holidays, or any time the Customer Care Center is closed.
• Demanding a specific form of payment: AVANGRID companies accept a variety of payment types, including credit cards, check, and more. These options can be found on the company’s website. If a caller insists on payment via a prepaid debit card — especially a specific brand of prepaid card — it is a scam.

Simple steps customers can take to protect themselves include:

• Check account status: Creating an online profile at the company’s website is a quick way to check account status. Customers can also call the company’s Customer Care Center at the number found on the bill or the company’s website. (Do not use callback numbers provided by unsolicited callers). Representatives can verify account status and work with customers to resolve any issues. 
• Check ID: Employees of all AVANGRID companies carry company-issued IDs. Ask for ID from any in-person visitor and call the company to verify their identity and nature of their business. Use the number on the company’s bill or website. Our employees are happy to comply with an identity verification request.
• Protect personal information: Customers should never share personal or financial information, including outstanding balances, without first verifying whom they’re speaking with.
• Collect evidence: Customers that suspect a scam are urged to get the name and number from caller ID, if available, write down any call-back number provided, and take notes on what the caller said. This will help investigators work with authorities to shut down the scam.
• Report it: Customers should report the scam to the utility, local law enforcement, and the Federal Trade Commission (http://www.ftc.gov/). This will help authorities shut down scams and prosecute the scammers.
• Enroll in AutoPay: The amount due is automatically deducted from a bank account each month, so customers will have no concerns about an outstanding balance.