The Office of Consumer Affairs & Business Regulation along with The Department of Public Utilities would like to inform consumers of a phone scam that is affecting Massachusetts residents. Residents are receiving calls from a business that is claiming to be a solar developer, calling on behalf of DPU. When consumers receive a call, the number that appears (617-305-3500) is the main phone number of DPU, making the call seem legitimate. However, it is not legitimate and they are not actually calling from this number, this tactic is called spoofing.  The scammers are demanding money for unpaid services. OCABR & DPU would like to advise consumers that these calls are not originating from the Department of Public Utilities nor are they on behalf of the Department of Public Utilities. These calls are phone scams. DPU is currently investigating but advises that customers should hang up immediately; do not provide any personal information.

How to report the DPU phone scam
If you are a victim of or were targeted by the this scam, you should alert your local police department, the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation, and the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office right away. You should also report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Communications Commission. Find contact information below.

Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation

10 Park Plaza, Suite 5170

Boston, MA 02108

617-973-8787

888-283-3757 (toll-free in MA)

http://www.mass.gov/ocabr/utility/contact-us-by-e-mail.html

Office of the Attorney General

Public Inquiry and Assistance Center

One Ashburton Place, 18^th Floor

Boston, MA 02108

617-727-2200 (voice)

617-727-4765 (TTY)

www.mass.gov/ago/complaint

Federal Trade Commission

CRC-240

600 Pennsylvania Ave., NW

Washington, DC 20580

877-382-4357 (voice)

866-653-4261 (TTY)

www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov

Federal Communications Commission

Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau

Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division

445 12^th Street, SW

Washington, DC 20554

888-225-5322 (voice)

888-835-5322 (TTY)

www.fcc.gov/complaints