SAPD alert – Imposters calling SCE customers to demand payments

Santa Ana Police Department Citizen Advisory: SAPD and Southern California Edison advise of New Payment Scam Targets Southern California Edison Customers

March 6, 2013 — Santa Ana Police Department and Southern California Edison (SCE) is advising customers to be aware of a new telephone scam that is demanding immediate payment for alleged past due electricity bills. Imposters have been calling SCE customers telling them they must make immediate payment on past due bills or have their electric service disconnected. The callers are also demanding that payment be made through a prepaid cash card, such as a PayPal or Green Dot card.

SCE asks its customers to be alert to these calls that demand immediate payment and threaten service disconnection. The Police Department and SCE are advising customers suspecting a fraudulent call to ask for the caller’s name, department and business phone number. If the caller refuses to provide this information, customers should terminate the call and report the incident immediately to local police or SCE at 800-655-4555.”

SCE also reminds customers to ask for identification when a stranger comes to the door or calls claiming to be a utility worker. SCE utility workers will provide verification, including their department phone number, when asked. In most cases, home visits by SCE are scheduled by the customer and SCE will confirm the appointment in writing. If there are any concerns, SCE and law enforcement officials suggest having the utility worker wait outside until their identity can be verified.

SCE and the Santa Ana Police Department advise SCE customers to also note:

• An SCE employee will never ask for money in person.
• Never reveal your credit card, ATM or calling card numbers (or PIN numbers) to anyone.
• If someone calls and requests you to leave your residence at a specific time for a utility-related cause, call the police. This could be a burglary set up by the caller.
• Be suspicious of anyone who arrives at your house without an appointment asking to check an appliance, wiring, or suggesting that there may be some other electrical problem inside your residence.

ANONYMOUS TIPS Call 1-855-TIP-OCCS or 1-855-847-6227 Text TIP “OCCS” plus your tip to 274637 (CRIMES).

Contact Information
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