Scammers are impersonating energy utility representatives, targeting real estate professionals and homeowners
It seems no industry is completely immune to exploitation by scammers, and that includes the energy sector. Recently San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) issued warnings about a new scam that specifically targets real estate professionals and homeowners. Once again, it’s another variation of extortion employing email, texts, and phone calls to separate you from your money.
Here’s the scenario: A real estate professional receives a text message which falsely claims to be representing SDG&E and warns that power to one of the realtor’s listed properties is “scheduled for disconnection.” The scammer (impersonating a field technician for the energy company) informs the realtor to contact a specific phone number to prevent the power from being disconnected. The realtor, fearing an electricity black out during an open house showing, contacts the number given and makes a payment. Eventually the realtor discovers that the communication was phony, and that they’d paid a scammer for absolutely nothing. Of course, this same scenario can happen to a homeowner, with slight variations.
There are similar scams involving people impersonating utility representatives via phone, text, or email, in other jurisdictions. Many of these messages pressure their intended victims to make quick decisions by referencing bogus “work orders” or “past-due balances,” then direct utility customers to fake websites or phone numbers. These scammers will often demand payment via Bitcoin, Zelle, or Green Dot — none of which are acceptable as payment by SDG&E (and most other utility companies). According to SDG&E, payments can be made in person with cash or a PIN-based debit card at an authorized payment location (payments via credit card can be made via their official website once a customer logs into their account). If you are concerned about your connection or account after receiving such communications, contact your utility company directly to verify that your account is in good standing.
Per SDG&E: Anyone who receives similar messages should avoid responding, clicking links or calling numbers that appear to be suspicious. Customers may call SDG&E directly at 1-800-411-7343 (or 1-800-311-7343 for Spanish speakers) if they have any questions about the legitimacy of a message.
More information regarding utility company scams
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Utility Scam Awareness: Avoid Utility Scams
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Protect Yourself From Utility Scams – Always Ask for ID
From time to time, we see an increased volume of reported scam attempts concerning both residential and business customers. When contacted by a person claiming to represent National Grid, we encourage customers to always ask for identification. We require all National Grid employees and contractors to carry photo ID cards.
Be Aware of Utility Scams
Utility scams continue to plague many communities in our state and across the country, including San José. It’s important to stay informed and protect yourself from becoming a target of a scam. Always remember: if it sounds suspicious, then it probably is.
