Five Facts to Keep You Safe From Utility Bill Scams

 Vietnamese  /  Chinese  /  Korean  /  Spanish

Scammers continue to target utility customers across the country. Typically, they pose as utility “collection” employees and threaten to disconnect electricity service unless a payment is made immediately using a prepaid cash card. We don't want you to fall victim to it. Follow these tips to avoid being scammed.

1. CALLER
Demands immediate payment or your electric service will be turned off.
FACT
SCE will never call to demand immediate payment with the threat of service disconnection.
 

2. CALLER
Tells you to buy a prepaid cash card.
FACT
SCE does not accept prepaid cash cards for bill payments.


3. CALLER
Says they are from SCE’s disconnection department.
FACT
SCE does not have a disconnection department.


4. CALLER
Offers to collect money in person.
FACT
An SCE employee will never ask for cash in person.


5. CALLER
Calls you on a weekend or holiday.
FACT
SCE does not conduct credit transactions on weekends or holidays.

If you suspect fraudulent activity, hang up and report it to local police and SCE at 1-800-655-4555. Be vigilant in verifying the identity of the caller — ask for their name, department and business phone number. Never reveal personal information to anyone, including your credit card or PIN number.

Find more ways to stay safe and protect yourself against scams: on.sce.com/ScamAlert.