Rochester Gas and Electric is urging customers to be on alert for a scam after reports of people posing as energy company representatives over the phone.
The company said in a statement that some customers have received calls threatening to cut service unless they make a payment immediately by phone.
RG&E said they have temporarily suspended service disconnections due to “non-payment” during the current public health crisis.
Employees are not entering customers’ homes or going door-to-door for non-emergency work, per the company’s COVID-19 response.
They warn customers to never give out personal or account information to unsolicited callers. Scams can be reported to the Federal Trade Commission on their website.
RG&E's additional advice for customers on avoiding scams:
- RG&E accepts a variety of payment methods, and Customer Care representatives will work with individual customers to help them pay down outstanding balances and maintain service. The company will never demand customers to purchase debit cards such as Green Dot cards to make payments.
- If unsure of the identity of the caller, ask for the last five digits of the account. If they do not have this information, hang up and alert local authorities. Never give out personal or account information to a caller.
- RG&E employees and contractors carry company-issued photo ID with a unique employee number. Ask for ID before providing personal or account information or granting access to your property. If you are not certain, call to confirm using the number on your bill or the company’s website.
- Be suspicious of unexpected emails from RG&E, especially if you’re not an eBill customer, and think twice before clicking links. If you’re not certain, you can make credit card payments, check balances and find other information at rge.com.
- When making a payment by phone, always use company phone numbers: RG&E customers can call 800.295.7323.
