Watch Out for Utility Bill Scam

National Grid again is reminding its customers of a nationwide utility bill scam.

National Grid electric customers have received telephone calls from individuals claiming to work for National Grid. These scammers demand payment through a prepaid card on past-due balances for electric accounts and threaten customers that their service will immediately be shut-off for non-payment.

In some cases, the caller also tells the customers they may have a faulty meter that is dangerous and in need of replacing for a substantial fee. The electric meter is the property of National Grid. Customers are not responsible for meter replacement costs. Callers are then directed to purchase a prepaid card to make an immediate payment in order to keep their power on.

National Grid does contact customers with past-due balances by phone to offer payment options, but never demands direct payment over the telephone. If customers wish, they can arrange for a payment by check, credit card or debit card if they speak directly to a customer service representative. Payment can also be made by credit card or debit card without a representative's assistance.

Customers who have received calls demanding immediate payment through a prepaid card or who may have been given fraudulent phone numbers for National Grid should make note of the company's published customer service number. To verify information and for any billing-related questions in New England, customers should call National Grid's Customer Contact Center at 1-800-322-3223.