Scam and Fraud Prevention
Learn how to protect yourself
We've seen an increased volume of reported scam attempts for both residential and business customers. When contacted by a person claiming to represent Rhode Island Energy, we encourage customers to always verify the person’s identity to protect themselves against scams.
- You are threatened with immediate service termination (this is not our procedure)
- The caller seeks payment when your account is current
- The caller demands immediate payment by wire transfer or prepaid card – we don’t accept payment through these cards
- The caller is someone you cannot identify
- The caller can’t provide the last five digits of your Rhode Island Energy account number when asked
Frequently asked questions about scams and fraudulent behavior
I’ve received collection phone calls from Rhode Island Energy in the past. How do I know if the collection phone call I’m receiving is legitimate?
We may ask for payment over the phone but will leave the method of payment to the customer’s discretion. Rhode Island Energy will not contact customers demanding immediate payment by wire transfer, Green Dot/Money-Pak, or any other pre-paid card service. Never share personal or financial information with someone you cannot identify.
How do I verify the person I’m speaking with on the phone or in person is a Rhode Island Energy employee?
If you are dealing with someone over the phone, please note that Rhode Island Energy representatives will know your account number; never offer that information to a caller. Ask the caller to provide the last five digits of your Rhode Island Energy account number. If the caller doesn’t know your account number, has questions about your account balance, and you doubt the caller is a Rhode Island Energy representative, hang up immediately and report the call to Rhode Island Energy at 1-855-743-1101.
When dealing with someone in person, please note that every Rhode Island Energy employee or contractor carries a photo ID card. If someone requests entry into your home or business and does not show an ID card, don’t let the person in and call local law enforcement.
What are some current scams that have been reported to Rhode Island Energy?
Rhode Island Energy has been alerted to scammers who contact customers via phone or in person and claim to be from Rhode Island Energy. Although tactics may vary, many scam reports include someone claiming to be from Rhode Island Energy to collect a past-due balance on a customer’s utility bill. Scammers demand payment, threaten to turn off power, and try to rush customers into making an immediate payment. Similar scams have been reported by utility customers across the U.S.
Scammers may also contact customers via email and attempt to lure recipients into clicking on a link, visiting a malicious website, revealing account information, or calling a phone number.
Additionally, we continue to receive several reports of phone scams, including robocalls offering 25% off future bills. These calls are not officially from Rhode Island Energy and are used for scammers to obtain account information.
If you suspect you've been scammed, contact your local law enforcement and the Attorney General's office immediately.
How do I learn more about scams and fraudulent behavior?
To learn more about how to protect yourself from scammers, please visit Utilities United Against Scams.