National Grid Smart Meter Scam Warning: How to Spot Fake Calls and Avoid Shutoff Threats

Scammers are going after National Grid customers right now, and it seems to be picking up as the company continues rolling out smart meters across the state.

One customer recently shared a warning online after nearly getting tricked by someone pretending to be a National Grid worker.

She said the caller claimed they were connected to the upcoming smart meter installation. When she mentioned wanting to opt out, they gave her an 800 number to call. That number turned out to be fake.

Read More: Warning! Scammers Posing As Walmart Security

The person on the other end told her their account was 78 days overdue and that their power would be shut off within 24 hours. Even though their bill was set up for automatic payments, the scammer pushed harder, claiming the balance had suddenly jumped to more than $400.

She said they were told to pay through Zelle, but thankfully, the bank blocked the transfer. Then the scammer switched tactics, instructing her to go to a 7-Eleven and pay with a prepaid card.

That is when she realized something was not right and stopped the process. She later checked her account and reported the scam to National Grid.

National Grid spokesperson David Bertola says this type of scam is still happening, and customers need to slow down before reacting.

Take a breath and take control of the situation.

He recommends asking the caller to read your account number back to you. If they cannot, hang up.

National Grid does contact customers by phone and text, but you should always verify any number or website through the official National Grid site.

Also, National Grid says it will never ask for payment through prepaid gift cards or services like Zelle.