Community Corner
Utility Scam Warning Issued
Crooks are promising Southern California Gas customers a credit on their bills in exchange for Social Security numbers and other personal info.
Southern California Gas Co. is warning customers about a scam in which the culprits tell victims they can get credits on their utility bills if they provide information such as a Social Security number.
According to the gas company, scammers have visited customers in person, used social media sites and even sent text messages to victims claiming that President Barack Obama is offering a program of bill credits or direct payment of bills.
Gas Co. officials said workers for the utility always carry proper identification when visiting customers, and they do not randomly call or text customers asking for Social Security numbers or other personal information. Customers should verify a person's employment before allowing anyone into their home or providing any information, the company said.
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To verify the authenticity of anyone claiming to be a representative of SoCalGas, customers should ask for proper identification or call the utility at 800-427-2200 or 800-342-4545.
-- City News Service
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