A report of someone going door to door in Clarksburg while falsely claiming to represent National Grid has prompted a warning in the Massachusetts town.
Here's what to know
National Grid told The Berkshire Eagle that a customer contacted the company on Sept. 14 about someone who was not affiliated with the utility but appeared to present themselves that way.
"This was a visit by a third party who is not affiliated with National Grid but claimed to be," a company spokesperson said. "The person asked to see the customer's utility bill, which we advise against."
Clarksburg's website later posted a National Grid letter with guidance on avoiding utility scams, and the company said town officials were also notified. In that letter, National Grid said a legitimate representative "will know your account number" while scammers "will not have access to your account information, social security number or other personal details and you should never offer that information if asked."
The Eagle also noted that Clarksburg does not have its own police department and instead is covered by the Massachusetts State Police. Massachusetts State Police Trooper Brandon Doherty told The Eagle that the state police have not documented any response in Clarksburg involving unauthorized soliciting.
What can be done?
Do not hand over a utility bill, account information, or Social Security number to someone who shows up at the door claiming to work for the company.
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The Eagle also reported that National Grid requires all employees and contractors to carry ID badges. If someone cannot provide identification, residents should treat that as a major red flag.
People can also verify claims independently by contacting the utility through official customer service channels rather than using any phone number or following any instructions offered by the person at the door.
National Grid's instruction on this point is direct: "If someone requesting entry into your home or business does not show identification as a National Grid employee or contractor, do not let that person in. Instead, call National Grid or local law enforcement."
Where can I learn more?
Utility scams can take many forms, from people at the door to misleading calls and bill-related claims to concerning ways companies use customer money.
• In Florida, AI scam calls dangle fake utility rebates and free AC units.
• A homeowner raised suspicions over rising utility bills and a harmful scam theory.
• A watchdog says utilities engineered schemes to use customer money to keep electricity bills high.
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