Utility Scam Alert In Town Of Hamilton

Press release from the Town of Hamilton:

May 12, 2021

New England utility customers are being warned about a new scam using a peer-to-peer app to steal money. A Rhode Island woman was featured on NBC10’s WJAR-TV, saying she received a call alleging to be from National Grid, using a National Grid phone number and said they were coming to disconnect her electric and gas service due to an outstanding bill. The scammer then told her exactly how much she owed along with her account number. The woman admitted she panicked and used the Zelle app through her bank, which allows customers to send money quickly for free. The woman transferred nearly $800 dollars before realizing she was targeted by scammers.

National Grid would not threaten immediate shut-off, and in fact, right now due to the pandemic, no residential customers are experiencing terminations. When in doubt, always phone National Grid’s Customer Service hotline at 1-800-322-3223. For additional information please visit ngrid.com/scam.

This press release was produced by the Town of Hamilton. The views expressed here are the author’s own.