LOS ANGELES (December 18, 2019) – This holiday season, LADWP is reminding our customers to be vigilant when it comes to potential utility scams, so that their precious, hard-earned dollars stay in their pockets and not in the hands of crooks. Utility scams have become a growing problem for utilities across the nation, and the holiday season is prime time for scammers. Scammers have taken to posing as utility workers either over the phone, or in person by donning utility uniforms or vests, with the goal of swindling money from unsuspecting individuals.
“Don’t let the grinch ruin your holidays! Protecting yourself may be as easy as hanging up the phone if you suspect something is not right on the other end of the line,” said Martin L. Adams, LADWP General Manager and Chief Engineer. “Know that LADWP will never call our customers threatening to shut off their water and power service if payment is not made on the spot. That’s just not how we operate.”
Hanging up on any suspicious calls, even if the phone number looks familiar, and dialing LADWP directly at
1-800-DIAL-DWP, will ensure customers are connected to LADWP’s call center. If you truly have a delinquent bill, an LADWP customer service representative will assist you with establishing a scheduled payment plan.
The only ways an LADWP customer can pay a bill are: in person at an LADWP customer service center; by logging into their online billpay service via www.ladwp.com; or by dialing into LADWP’s automated phone payment system, but never with a live employee taking payment over the phone.
In some instances, customers may encounter LADWP field collection employees who make in-person visits and who can accept delinquent payments. These employees wear an official LADWP uniform, carry department identification badges and drive department vehicles. LADWP employees use handheld devices that contain a customer’s account information. They will only accept cash or check and will provide the customer with an LADWP stamped receipt. LADWP will never ask our customers to make payments with a pre-paid debit card, gift card, or any form of cryptocurrency. We also will never ask a customer to meet an LADWP representative at a random or unofficial department payment location that is not listed anywhere on our website or customer bill.
An imposter also may pose as a utility worker to gain entry into your home to commit theft. Always ask to see an employee photo ID before allowing any workers into your home or business. You can also call LADWP to verify the authenticity of a call or visit.
Customers who suspect that they have been victims of fraud or who feel threatened during contact with a scammer should contact their local utility company or law enforcement authorities. The Federal Trade Commission’s website also provides additional information about protecting personal information and other information regarding impostor scams.
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