PSEG Long Island's Call for Scam Awareness and Prevention
If someone calls and threatens to immediately shut off the power, it's likely fraudulent.
As we approach the holiday season, PSEG Long Island is keenly aware of the increase in scams targeting customers. Scammers have been exploiting this time of year by impersonating utility representatives and bombarding individuals and businesses with immediate payment demands to avoid power shutoff. In light of Utility Scam Awareness Day, PSEG Long Island urges everyone to remember: "Slow Down. Verify. Stop the Scam." This message serves as a reminder for customers to remain vigilant against fraudulent activity.
Understanding the Latest Scam Tactics
Lou DeBrino, the vice president of Customer Operations at PSEG Long Island, emphasizes the need for heightened awareness around these scams. "The theme of this year's Utility Scam Awareness Day is 'Slow Down. Verify. Stop the Scam', and it is crucial for all customers to stay alert against impostor scams. These scammers may utilize different platforms—they could be digital, in person, or via phone calls—but they tend to create a sense of urgent crisis hoping to catch you off guard. If anyone threatens to shut off your power immediately without payment, take a step back and confirm their identity by contacting PSEG Long Island directly for clarification before taking any action."
Scammers are continuously refining their strategies, utilizing urgent and threatening messages to compel customers into hasty decisions, often aimed at eliciting fear and panic. To counter this, PSEG Long Island suggests using the framework of "Slow Down, Verify, Stop the Scam." This framework equips customers with the composure to pause and verify any suspicious claims before it's too late.
What to Know About Payment Scams
Here's crucial information every customer should understand:
- Scammers frequently impersonate PSEG Long Island, claiming an immediate threat of power shutoff unless payment is made right away.
- Many of these fraudsters employ phone spoofing technology to manipulate caller ID, making their number appear as if it's from PSEG Long Island.
- PSEG Long Island will never instruct customers to use a specific payment method.
- Fraudsters often try to solicit payments via online payment services, prepaid debit cards, or even digital currencies like Bitcoin. They may ask victims to buy gift cards and relay the information over the phone.
- It is important to note that PSEG Long Island does not accept payments via external websites or electronic payment services.
- Beware of scams soliciting deposits for priority service installations; PSEG Long Island does not require deposits for meter installations.
- In any case of doubt regarding the authenticity of a call or email, especially those requesting payment, customers should call the company directly to verify at 1-800-490-0025.
In-Person Visits: A Common Scam Technique
On occasion, scammers may visit homes posing as employees of PSEG Long Island, displaying fake identification or claiming to be collection agents. These impostors might don uniforms or attach misleading company logos to their vehicles. When confronted, they often attempt to collect personal information, which genuine utility representatives never do, or offer false discounts. If customers feel unsure about the legitimacy of a visitor, they should refrain from letting them enter and call PSEG Long Island for verification at 1-800-490-0025.
When interacting with customers, legitimate PSEG Long Island employees are required to present official identification upon request, reinforcing that customers should never allow individuals inside their homes if they’re uncertain about their credentials. Employees from PSEG Long Island are trained to handle situations professionally without escalating confrontations—if the visitor does escalate, customers should feel empowered to call 911.
Spotting Fake Websites and New Scams
This season, customers should also be cautious of fake websites created by scammers that closely imitate legitimate utility websites. These fraudulent domains aim to mislead users and collect personal information or payment details. PSEG Long Island operates its real site exclusively under the '.com' domain.
Additionally, a new scam involves fraudulent QR codes on public electric vehicle charging stations. Unsuspecting users might scan these codes and be directed to counterfeit websites requesting personal information. PSEG Long Island does not have programs that necessitate engagement with its website to activate these chargers.
As a proactive measure, PSEG Long Island will only discuss accounts with verified customers over the phone. If you're approached by someone alleging to represent the company, check for appropriate identification and don't hesitate to report suspicious behavior or call 1-800-490-0025 for assistance.
Working Together Against Utility Scams
PSEG Long Island is a proud member of Utilities United Against Scams, a coalition committed to raising awareness about common scams and evolving tactics employed by impostors. The coalition has played an essential role in decommissioning over 14,830 phone numbers previously used by scammers to target utility customers.
For more information on different payment scams that have been reported across the PSEG Long Island service area and beyond, refer to the company's customer support resources for scams and fraud to stay informed and protected.
PSEG Long Island operates the Long Island Power Authority's transmission and distribution system as a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PSEG) (NYSE: PEG), a publicly traded diversified energy company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I receive a suspicious call?
Immediately hang up and contact PSEG Long Island directly at 1-800-490-0025 to verify the claims.
How can I tell if a call is from a scammer?
Look for threats of immediate shutoff and requests for specific payment methods, which are common characteristics of scams.
What payment methods does PSEG Long Island accept?
PSEG Long Island does not utilize external electronic payment services or requests for payment through third-party platforms.
Can scammers impersonate in-person utility workers?
Yes, scammers may go door-to-door impersonating PSEG Long Island employees. Always check for identification and contact the company for verification.
What steps can I take to protect myself from scams?
Utilize the "Slow Down. Verify. Stop the Scam" framework to ensure you verify all urgent requests for payment before taking action.
