Operator of “Buffalo CPN” Indicted for Utility Fraud Scheme

Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announces that Umar Graham, 29, of Buffalo, was arraigned yesterday morning before Erie County Court Judge Suzanne Maxwell Barnes on an indictment charging him with two counts of Grand Larceny in the Second Degree (Class C felonies), one count of Unlawful Possession of Personal Identification Information in the Second Degree (Class E felony) and one count of Scheme to Defraud in the First Degree (Class E felony).

Graham is accused of engaging in a scheme to defraud involving fraudulent Credit Privacy Numbers (CPNs) to open utility accounts and evade payment for services in exchange while stealing money from his victims. Also known as "credit profile numbers" and "credit protection numbers," CPNs are fabricated numbers or stolen Social Security Numbers, which are fraudulently marketed to individuals seeking to improve their credit history.

It is alleged that between on or about February 1, 2024, and August 29, 2025, the defendant knowingly engaged in an ongoing course of conduct with the intent to defraud more than ten individuals and obtain property under fraudulent pretenses. The defendant is accused of operating the company "Buffalo CPN" where he allegedly advertised outstanding utility bills relief and new credit identities to customers through a Credit Privacy Number.

The defendant is accused of possessing more than 250 items of personal identifying information belonging to other individuals, which he used in furtherance of the commission of the scheme to defraud. The defendant allegedly advertised "Buffalo CPN" services through social media. It is alleged that after the defendant obtained personal identifying information and payment from his victims, he contacted utility providers and opened new service accounts by using Credit Privacy Numbers. The alleged crime resulted in approximately $136,000 in financial losses to two utility companies.

Graham was released on his own recognizance as the charges are non-qualifying offenses for bail. A return court date has not been scheduled at this time.

If convicted of the highest charge, Graham faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

"While this case is the first of its kind to be prosecuted by this office, it highlights another financial crime that preys on utility companies and their customers," said DA Mike Keane. "CPNs are not legal substitutes for Social Security Numbers. Let this be a warning to the public - any scam involving CPNs will be fully investigated and prosecuted. As this investigation remains ongoing, the Amherst Police Department has set up a special phone line, and I urge anyone who has been a victim or may have information to come forward."

The Erie County District Attorney's Office encourages anyone who has been a victim of "Buffalo CPN" or a similar CPN-related crime is encouraged to call 716-689-1390.

DA Keane commends the Social Security Administration, Amherst Police Department, National Fuel and National Grid for their work in this ongoing investigation.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Brian P. Dassero of the Special Investigations and Prosecutions Bureau and Assistant District Attorney Carolina A. Lew of the Felony Trials Bureau.

As are all persons accused of a crime, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.