Catskill PD warns of scam targeting Central Hudson customers

CATSKILL―The Catskill Police Department is warning the public of an ongoing scam involving callers who impersonate Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. representatives.

“Scammers are calling people and claiming that one or more of their utility accounts is delinquent and requires immediate payment,” Catskill Police reported.

The scammer then sends a barcode or link via text or email and instructs the customer to go to a store―such as Walmart or other retailers―to scan it and make a payment with a gift card or money card.

To make the scam seem legitimate, Catskill Police says callers may also:

- Play Central Hudson style hold music;

- Use recorded voice messages that sound like Central Hudson’s automated system; and

- Spoof phone numbers so the call appears to come from Central Hudson.

According to Catskill Police, Central Hudson will never:

- Ask anyone to pay using barcodes, QR codes, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or retail store payments;

- Demand immediate payment by phone or threaten instant shut-off; or

- Ask for personal or banking information through unsolicited calls or texts.

“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,” Central Hudson says.

“Fraudsters can spoof phone numbers and email addresses to make it look like they’re from Central Hudson and other utility companies,” the utility warns.

Anyone unsure about the authenticity of a suspicious message from Central Hudson is urged to call them directly 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,” Central Hudson advises.

Catskill Police says anyone who receives one of these calls should:

- Hang up immediately;

- Do not scan barcodes, click links, or go to a store;

- Verify your account by calling Central Hudson directly; and

- Remember that caller ID can be faked.

Anyone targeted by one of these scams is urged to report it to their local law enforcement agency and to Central Hudson.

“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,” Central Hudson says. “Knowing the warning signs can help you protect yourself and your family.”

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