PSEG Long Island Launches Awareness Campaign Against Utility Scams During Busy Holiday Season
On November 19, 2025, PSEG Long Island is stepping up its efforts to combat utility scams that are increasingly prevalent during the holiday season. With many households and businesses in Long Island and the Rockaways facing challenges, scammers are taking advantage of the stressful atmosphere to impersonate utility companies and demand immediate payments to prevent sudden power shut-offs. This public service announcement is a part of the Utility Scam Awareness Day campaign, where PSEG Long Island is making a strong call to action: 'Slow Down. Verify. Stop the Scam.'
The campaign, as articulated by Lou DeBrino, PSEG Long Island’s Vice President of Customer Operations, aims to educate the public about the various tactics employed by scammers. These fraudsters often create a sense of urgency in their communications, attempting to pressure customers into making rash decisions without verifying the authenticity of the claims. For instance, customers may receive a call threatening an imminent power shut-off if payment is not made. In such instances, PSEG Long Island advises customers to take a step back and independently verify the call by contacting PSEG directly.
Utility scams can manifest in numerous ways. One prevalent method involves phone calls using 'spoofing' technology, making it appear that the call is coming directly from PSEG Long Island. Customers should be aware that PSEG will never insist on a specific payment method or require payment via third-party electronic payment services, prepaid debit cards, or cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.
Moreover, scammers may approach victims in person, disguised as PSEG employees. They often display fake identification and may attempt to collect personal information or offer bogus discounts. PSEG representatives are always identified with company ID cards, and customers should never engage with anyone they suspect to be a scammer. If employees sense any suspicious behavior, they are instructed not to escalate the situation; customers, however, should call the authorities if they feel threatened.
Another recent trend is scammers placing fraudulent QR code stickers on public electric vehicle charging stations. These stickers may seem legitimate but lead customers to scam websites that solicit personal information or payment details. PSEG Long Island clarifies that they do not require customers to interact with their website to activate public charging stations.
It's essential for customers to know precisely how to identify legitimate communication from PSEG Long Island. Authentic representatives will only engage with the named Customer of Record and provide detailed account information during the call. If a caller fails to provide that information, it is likely a scam.
PSEG Long Island is also part of the Utilities United Against Scams (UUAS) initiative, working to raise awareness about scams and their evolving tactics. With the cooperation of vigilant customers, this initiative has helped eliminate thousands of scam phone numbers that target utility customers.
For those skeptical about any communication they receive from PSEG, the company encourages immediate verification by calling them at 1-800-490-0025. Staying informed and cautious is the best defense against these scams. For more detailed information, PSEG Long Island urges customers to visit their official website, where resources are available to help identify and report potential scam activities. Together, as a community, the fight against utility scams can gain momentum, ensuring protection for all customers during this busy holiday season.