Bill payment scams hitting Central Hudson customers

POUGHKEEPSIE – Recent bill payment scams have targeted businesses and residents that are customers of Central Hudson Gas and Electric.
Some have received phone calls by people claiming to be with or representing the utility, indicating their account is past due and directing them to pay their bill using a money order or wire transfer. The perpetrators indicate that if payment is not made in that fashion, services would be cut off.
Central Hudson officials said the company would not request a bill payment in that manner and has notified the police of the scam.
Other reported scams include calls directing customers to pay their utility bill through a pay-back money card.