SCE warns customers about a new scam

Southern California Edison is reporting that scammers posing as representatives of the company are going door to door to collect “connection fees.” 

SCE says in an attempt to collect payments for these fees, which do not exist, scammers are threatening to shut off services.

Jeff Monford, a Senior Advisor with SCE, says that scammers are very persuasive and tend to target those who spend a lot of time at home.

“Occasionally they might find someone who's feeling lonely and is happy to have a phone conversation and they might sound friendly. And that's a very good way to plant the hook and reel somebody in," said Monford.

SCE says some customers were asked to send money through Zelle, Bitcoin or a prepaid credit card which is not a legitimate form of payment according to the company. 

Some scammers have even posed as SCE-represented solar panel installers which is not a service the company has ever provided. 

“Before you know it, there is a false sense of trust in this person. That can happen to anyone," Monford said.

According to SCE, over 6,000 customers received scam calls asking for over $2 million in 2022. 442 customers were tricked into making immediate payments totaling $420,000. 

SCE is reaffirming that their company would never ask for immediate payments over the phone or in person nor do they offer solar panel or battery installations. 

The following are tips that SCE is sharing to help customers avoid scams:

If you have receive a call from a scammer, ask for a call back number before you hang up and send it to SCE's email csinfogov@sce.com or complete their online fraud form.

You can also call local law enforcement to report scammers as well.