The City of Cambridge is warning residents about a rise in utility scams this winter. Scammers are posing as city or utility representatives, demanding immediate payment and personal information. The city advises: If someone calls you asking for money, it is a scam.
The City of Cambridge warns residents that no official or utility representative from Eversource or Direct Energy will request payment over the phone. Cambridge Community Electricity enrollment is automatic and free, with the option to opt out at any time. Direct Energy and Eversource do not cold-call for sales or send payment demands without first mailing a letter. Residents are urged to report suspicious calls.
The City of Cambridge advises residents to verify any caller claiming to be from a utility by asking for their account name, service address, and exact past-due balance. Residents should not wire money or provide prepaid card information to unknown callers, and any suspicious emails or texts should be ignored. The city reminds, "Never wire money to someone you don't know."
The City of Cambridge urges residents who believe they have been targeted by utility scams to contact their bank and file a police report. Individuals can report incidents at the Cambridge Police Department’s Central Square Reporting Station at 125 Sixth Street or by calling (617) 349-3300. Authorities remind the public to remain vigilant against scammers.
