San Diego Gas and Electric urges customers to remain vigilant as scams exploiting people’s trust on essential services are on the rise.
The company reported 806 scams since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has been the main contributor to many customers unable to make payments on time.
According to SDG&E, threats of immediate service disconnections for past due bills, demands for financial information over the phone and insisting for payments on prepaid cards or wire transfer services like Venmo and Zelle are the most common forms of scams.
SDG&E does not use these forms of payment methods. Customers may receive communications directing them to their MYAccount at myaccount.sdge.com, using the BillMatrix system, or call by using the automated pay-by-phone option at (800) 411-7343.
As of November 2017, SDG&E employees are required to have company logos embroidered onto their uniforms, and they are required to carry a photo ID badge.
A list of tips are provided by SDG&E to guard against fraud:
- Only provide financial information over the phone if you made the call.
- Make sure whoever is on the other line can verify they are with SDG&E or can verify your account information. If you are unsure, hang up and contact SDG&E directly.
- Every SDG&E employee on company business is required to carry a photo ID badge. If you encounter someone claiming to be an SDG&E employee, request to see his/her ID badge or call 1-800-411-7343.
- To verify information about your account including bills and payments, login to the MyAccount portal, or use the SDG&E mobile app.
Individuals may also call law enforcement and the state attorney general’s office about any suspected scam. Reports can also be made to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Victims of utility scams are urged to call SDG&E immediately at 1-800-411-7343 to report it. Additional tips to avoid becoming a victim of utility scams are available here.
