It has been more than a month since April Fools’ Day, but that hasn’t stopped scammers from playing tricks on area residents.
According to an Eversource press release, scammers are disguising themselves as Eversource representatives and going door-to-door asking for confidential financial information.
It’s a scam to steal residents’ identities and take advantage of unsuspecting victims.
Eversource doesn’t solicit confidential information in person. They also don’t call customers on behalf of third-party energy suppliers over the phone.
Massachusetts customers can choose a third-party electricity supplier to get a lower price. Eversource said that it’s important for customers to do their research first, and make sure the company they sign up with isn’t a scam.
Scammers sometimes use a fabricated business that might look real, but isn’t.
“The key to stopping these scammers in their tracks is don’t panic, don’t pay and don’t provide any personal information,” said Penni Conner, senior vice president and chief customer officer at Eversource.
The press release also said that “all Eversource employees carry company-issued identification, and any electrical contractors working with Eversource carry documentation explaining the nature and location of their work.”
When in doubt, don’t pay. Instead, shut the door and call Eversource to ask if the business is legitimate. Eversource can verify a customer’s identity over the phone by asking a few questions, such as date of birth and home address.
And remember that Eversource doesn’t ask for instant payment in-person or over the phone. They also don’t use pre-paid debit cards, or ask to meet somewhere like a grocery store or bank, to make a payment.