Full Answer
Is the National Grid TCPA settlement a scam?
If you're one of the thousands of people in New York, Massachusetts, or Rhode Island who get their utilities from National Grid, you might have received an email last month about a settlement for the company's violation of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. Is the National Grid TCPA settlement a scam? No, it isn't a scam.
What did national grid do wrong in the settlement?
Although National Grid reportedly denies doing anything wrong, it agreed to pay the settlement. The company has also changed its policies and procedures regarding customer calls, including now asking customers if they consent to receive automated collection calls. How do I know if the settlement applies to me?
How much does it cost to file a lawsuit against national grid?
Settlement payments are estimated to be between $50 and $150. What if I want to file my own lawsuit against National Grid? You have the right to exclude yourself from the settlement or object to it.
Did you receive automated calls from National Grid?
The settlement applies to anyone in the U.S. who received automated calls on their cell phone from National Grid between March 9, 2011, and October 29, 2021. The prerecorded messages covered under the settlement include those that state:
How do I know if the settlement applies to me?
The settlement applies to anyone in the U.S. who received automated calls on their cell phone from National Grid between March 9, 2011, and October 29, 2021. The prerecorded messages covered under the settlement include those that state:
How do I file a claim?
If you think you're included in the settlement, you can complete a claim form online or fill out a paper form. The emails National Grid sent out last month will have a Notice ID and Confirmation Code for you to use on your claim. However, you can still submit a claim even if you didn't receive a mailed or emailed notice about the settlement. All settlement claims must be submitted online or postmarked no later than May 12, 2022. Settlement payments are estimated to be between $50 and $150.
What to do if you fall for National Grid scam?
If you think you have fallen for the scam, call National Grid customer service.
How do scammers contact customers?
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. Learn more about protecting yourself from email scams here.
What to do if you are victim to a scam?
If you believe you have fallen victim to a scam, contact National Grid and report the scam to your local law enforcement officials and the Attorney General’s office immediately.
Can utility customers contact scammers?
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. Learn more about protecting yourself from email scams here.
Can you pay National Grid by phone?
National Grid may ask for a payment over the phone, but will leave the method of payment to the customer. National Grid will not contact customers demanding immediate payment by wire transfer, Green Dot Money-Pak or any other pre-paid card service. Never -- under any circumstances -- offer personal or financial information to someone who you cannot identify.
Do you need a photo ID to work at National Grid?
If you are dealing with someone in person, please note that every National Grid employee carries a photo ID card, and any contractor doing work for the company is also required to carry ID.
Is National Grid a scam?
Although tactics may vary, many scam reports include someone claiming to be from National Grid and will inform the customer that they have a past due balance on their utility bill. Scammers will demand payment, make threats to turn off power, and try to rush customers into making an immediate payment.