For Immediate Release

Author: Sgt. Lisa Holton
Date: April 18, 2018 11:57 AM

Fraud Alert: Utility Scam

The San Rafael Police Department has received two reports within the past month regarding attempts to defraud local businesses. The suspects have posed as representatives of utility companies. The caller, who sounded professional, advised the business owner or manager that their service will be shut off if payment is not received immediately.

The caller transferred their call to another “agent,” creating what appears to be a legitimate business transaction. The caller requested business account numbers so that payment could be made via pre-paid credit card. PG&E does not do business this way.

What to do if you receive a call from someone asking for payment via telephone:

Do not be intimidated
Get a call back number - but do not trust that number as valid (Keep it for the police).
Refer to your billing statement and contact the utility company via phone numbers printed on the bill. If you do not have a printed statement, check your statement online to determine your service status.
Do not, under any circumstances, give personal identifying information or account information to someone who calls you.

As always, if in doubt check it out! Do not feel pressured to cooperate with unsolicited phone calls.