13:37, 22 Mar 2021Updated19:10, 22 Mar 2021 See news near you National Insurance number scam - how to protect yourself Sign up to FREE email alerts from Liverpool Echo - ECHO Money Saving ...

After purchasing a prepaid card, customers are directed to call a toll-free number that replicates National Grid's recorded messaging, mimicking the company's automated operator.

National Grid is encouraging its customers to be vigilant and protect their personal information amid reports of utility billing and payment scams increasing in the Upstate New York region.

“The other place though, is a substantial portion of the 800 number calls are a scam,” Quilici said. “It’s for a couple reasons.