Phone Scammers Use Scare Tactics To Target Eversource Customers

BOSTON (CBS) -- Eversource has issued a warning of a reemerging telephone scam where its customers are being told to pay their utility bills with a wire transfer or a prepaid debit card or the company will shut off their power.

"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.

Callers have been identifying themselves as supervisors from Eversource Energy, and tell the customer their bill is past due and are facing termination of their electrical services. The customer is then told to provide cash payment information over the phone.

Eversource never demands instant payment over the phone and doesn't require the use of debit cards, the company said.

According to Eversource Energy, one way to spot scammers is to ask the caller to provide basic information about your account. Actual Eversource customer service representatives will always be able to verify the name on the account, the account address, and the exact past due balance.

Customers who suspect they have been solicited by a scammer are urged to contact their local police.