Energy Companies Unite Against Scammers Targeting Customers
It can start with a phone call, email or knock at your door. Scammers using sophisticated tactics to steal from unsuspecting victims are targeting energy company customers.
PG&E customers have reported 2,400 scams this year, up from 1,800 in 2015. The actual number of attempts is probably much higher. And crooks are getting creative, pressuring people to provide personal information like social security or bank account numbers, or immediate payment.
That’s why PG&E is joining North America utilities on November 16 for “Utilities United Against Scams Day” to raise awareness.
PG&E never requires a customer to purchase a prepaid debit card to avoid service disconnection. Beware of emails asking for personal or financial information.
Ask for identification before letting anyone claiming to be from PG&E inside your home. If you still feel uncomfortable, call PG&E’s Customer Service line at 1-800-743-5000 to verify an appointment and/or the presence of PG&E in the community. If you still feel threatened, notify local law enforcement.
To learn more about how to spot scams and report it, please visit www.pge.com/scams.
Vic Baker
Senior Manager of PG&E’s Diablo division
