New Canaan Resident Fleeced in Utility Scam

NEW CANAAN, CT - A New Canaan resident was the victim of a utility scam by an individual who identified himself as being an Eversource representative and demanded payment.

New Canaan Police Chief Leon Krolikowski said, "The fraudster claimed that the resident’s electric bill was past due and that service would be shut off unless payment via Western Union was immediately made." The incident occurred March 13.

The resident sent $149 via Western Union and later called Eversource to complain after losing power at his residence — a power loss that was caused by a downed tree, according to Krolikowski. An Eversource representative told the resident he had been defrauded, Krolikowski said.

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The police chief described the victim as "an older resident."

Similar scams have been reported throughout Fairfield County and both residents as well as small businesses have been targeted.

According to the Eversource, company representatives never demand instant payment, and do not require the use of prepaid debit cards. In addition, follow these tips:

• Never provide personal financial or utility account information to any unsolicited individual, in person, on the phone, or online, even if the individual seems legitimate.
• Remember that customers who are scheduled for disconnection due to nonpayment receive written notice that includes the actions they can take to maintain service.
• Verify that you are speaking with an Eversource representative by asking for some basic information about your account like the name on the account, the account address, and the exact past due balance.

Eversource urges anyone who has any doubts about a call or a home visit to contact the company directly at 1-800-286-2000, and to report the incident to local police immediately.

This scam is similar to “Green Dot scams,” where victims are told they can avoid penalties by purchasing Green Dot MoneyPak prepaid gift cards at a store. The victims are told to call back and provide the gift card serial number. Once the scammer has the serial number, they are able to transfer those funds.

More information can be found at: https://www.eversource.com/Content/nh/residential/safety/protect-you-your-family-from-scams

Residents also can stay informed about scams and send anonymous tips to New Canaan Police by downloading the “MYPD” application in the iPhone or Android marketplace. After downloading the application search for “New Canaan” and get connected.

Police also can be contacted at 203-594-3500 for assistance.