National Grid warns of payment scam

WALTHAM, Mass. (WPRI) -- National Grid has issued a warning about a utility bill payment scam affecting its customers across New England.

They tell us that scammers claiming to be National Grid employees are calling customers and asking that they pay for outstanding balances or for the replacement of faulty meters with a Green Dot MoneyPak card.

Green Dot MoneyPak cards act as pre-paid credit cards. Customers add money to them, which can later be used to pay for things such as utility bills.

During the calls, the scammers ask the customers for their 14-digit card number, which would allow them access to any funds on the card.

National Grid says they don't have a Green Dot MoneyPak program, and never ask customers to pay directly for faulty equipment.

Any customers that have been targeted should immediately notify local law enforcement and National Grid. Electric customers in New England and natural gas customers in Rhode Island should call 800-322-3223. Natural gas customers in Mass. should call 1-800-732-3400.