RG&E & NYSEG warn of scammers posing as employees

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — RG&E is instructing its customers about potential scammers posing as representatives — and what to look out for.

RG&E and NYSEG are warning their customers that scammers are posing as representatives of their respective utilities and attempting to steal personal information. Both companies said scammers are using more aggressive tactics in the spring season, such as false phone numbers and emails, texts, and even coming to your front door.

These scams include imposters threatening to disconnect their service unless they pay, pay with cash or a pre-paid card for a meter upgrade, or encourage customers to make a payment by sharing their personal bank information.

The utilities warn that their representatives would not send employees into a home or business to use their devices, encourage customers to sign up for a service, take pictures of an electric bill, or ask for a payment with a prepaid credit card or other methods.

“The best way to combat these types of scams is to stay alert and informed,” said Customer Service Vice President Christine Alexander. “If you’re uncertain of the identity of the caller or a visitor to your door, contact our customer service team immediately. We are always here to help you.”

If you receive a call in the near future from someone you believe to be a scammer, hang up and call RG&E back using the company’s phone number. If you receive a potential email scam, you can check for payments on the company’s website instead. Lastly, if someone comes to your door, ask for the representative’s check ID.

If you believe you have been scammed by someone posing as an RG&E representative or were threatened, you are urged to call 911 and email the Federal Trade Commission.

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