Days After LIPA Warning, National Grid Warns of Billing Scam

Just days after  taking place nationwide, National Grid gave customers the same warning on Tuesday.

The scheme reportedly involves individuals who say that a federal program will pay customers' utility bills. In order to qualify, customers must provide a social security number and bank routing number, at which point a secondary account is set up. National Grid reports that these accounts are fraudulent and not accepted by the company.

All National Grid employees are required to carry company identification, so if they have any doubts, customers are urged to ask to see a company badge from anyone who identifies themself as a National Grid employee. Customers can call 1-800-930-5003 to confirm whether an individual is employed with National Grid.

The utility company said Tuesday that the fraudulent solicitations are taking place in-person (door-to-door), over the phone, and online. Anyone who is solicited should contact law enforcement immediately.