Scam artists claiming to be bill collectors for the city of Moreno Valley and Southern California Edison are targeting residents, demanding payments for overdue bills, prompting city officials Wednesday to urge utility customers to be on alert.
“Residents have been contacted by people pretending to represent Moreno Valley Utility or SCE, claiming that a payment needs to be made immediately on a late electricity bill, or the power will be turned off,” according to a city statement. “We do not call customers to demand payment for a late bill.”
It was unclear how long the scam has been going or how many people have been victimized.
According to the city, during contact with residents or messages left on their voicemail, the scammers direct bill payers to call (800) 436-7115 to arrange payments. But any money sent is being pocketed by the scam perpetrators, not the city or SoCal Edison.
Officials recommended that recipients of calls always confirm with MVU or SCE whether there are any outstanding bills, and if a call is received, never share personal information with the person on the other end of the line.
Anyone with questions or concerns should contact the city’s utility service center at (844) 341-6469, or SCE at (800) 655-4555.