Phone with "suspected scam" on screen
Home > Account Resources > Energy Resources Blog > Stay Alert: Spotting and Avoiding Scams

Stay Alert: Spotting and Avoiding Utility Impostor Scams

Central Hudson is highlighting some of the ways scammers can target you as a utility customer.  

These scammers impersonate utility companies across the country, including Central Hudson, through phone calls, emails, text messages, in-person visits, and even social media to trick you into paying fake bills or sharing personal information. Knowing the warning signs can help you protect yourself and your family. 

Beware of Common Utility Scam Tactics 

  1. Urgent Payment Demands: Scammers often claim your service will be disconnected immediately unless you pay right away, often by unusual, untraceable methods. We never demand instant payment through gift cards, prepaid debit cards, or wire transfers. Scammers also claim your utility bill can be paid by a third party, even one such as a U.S. President. These messages can be fake! 

  2. Fake Caller ID or Emails: Fraudsters can spoof phone numbers and email addresses to make it look like they’re from Central Hudson and other utility companies. If you're unsure about the authenticity of a suspicious message from us, call us at (845) 452-2700 to verify. If you receive a suspicious email that has an attachment for you to click on, do not open it as it may include malware. 

  3. Overpayment Refund Trick: Some scammers say you’ve overpaid and ask for your bank details to “refund” you. We never request sensitive banking information this way. 

  4. Social Media Impersonation: Scammers may create fake social media profiles pretending to be Central Hudson. Always check for verified accounts and links to our official social media profiles on our website. 

  5. Impostors at Your Door: At times, scammers may pose as Central Hudson employees to collect fake utility bill payments in person or gain access to your home. They may request immediate payments or seek entry under false pretenses to commit theft. If someone knocks on your door and claims to be from Central Hudson, look for a marked company vehicle and ask for ID. If something feels off, call us at (845) 452-2700 before allowing entry or making payments. 

 

How to Protect Yourself 

  • Verify Before You Pay: If you receive a suspicious call or message, hang up and call us at (845) 452-2700, or visit our official website. 
  • Don’t Share Personal Info: Never give out Social Security numbers, banking details, or passwords to unsolicited callers or messages. 
  • Report Scams: Notify us and local authorities if you suspect fraud. 

 

Remember: Stay Alert 

Scammers rely on fear and urgency to trick unsuspecting people. By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid becoming their next victim. When in doubt, always contact a member of the Central Hudson team at (845) 452-2700. For more information on common scams, visit https://www.cenhud.com/scamcentral. 

For more information on Utility Scams, visit https://www.utilitiesunited.org/.