Payment scam targeting Edison customers

Southern California Edison is advising customers to be aware of a new telephone scam that is demanding immediate payment for allegedly past due electricity bills. Imposters have been calling SCE customers telling them must make immediate payment on past due bills or have their electric service disconnected. The callers are also demanding that payment be made through a prepaid cash card, such as PayPal or a Green Dot card.

"We ask our customers to be alert to these calls that demand immediate payment and threaten service disconnection," said Henry Martinez, SCE vice president of safety, security and compliance. "Customers suspecting a fraudulent call should ask for the caller's name, department and business phone number. If the caller refuses to provide this information, customers should terminate the call and report the incident immediately to local police or SCE at (800) 655-4555."

SCE also reminded customers to ask for identification when a stranger comes to the door or calls claiming to be a utility worker. SCE utility workers will provide verification, including their department and phone number, when asked.

In most cases, home visits by SCE are scheduled by the customer and SCE will confirm the appointment in writing. If there are any concerns, SCE and law enforcement officials suggest having the utility worker wait outside until their identity can be verified.

SCE customers should also note that:

*An SCE employee will never ask for money in person;

*Never reveal your credit card, ATM or calling card numbers (or PIN numbers) to anyone;

*If someone calls and requests you leave your residence at a specific time for a utility-related cause, call the police. This could be a burglary set up by the caller;

*Be suspicious of anyone who arrives at your house without an appointment asking to check an appliance, wiring or suggesting that there may be some other electrical problem inside your residence.

For more ways customers can stay safe, go online to sce.com/safety and read the safety tips section.