SoCalGas offers tips to avoid imposters and online scams

– SoCalGas advises customers to be vigilant against imposters and scams. If someone comes to your home claiming to be a SoCalGas representative, consider the following:

• Typically, SoCalGas visits homes in response to specific service requests. If you are not expecting a visit, call the company before allowing anyone into your home.
• Occasionally, SoCalGas employees may need access to properties for maintenance or company-generated work, such as safety inspections or leak surveys.
• Most authorized employees will drive a company vehicle and wear a uniform with the SoCalGas logo.
• SoCalGas employees are required to carry a SoCalGas photo ID badge. Always ask to see their badge or identification.
• SoCalGas employees will never request payments during home visits.
• To verify the authenticity of anyone claiming to be a SoCalGas representative, ask for identification or call (800) 427-2200 or (800) 342-4545 for Spanish-language customer service.

SoCalGas also works with contractors authorized to represent the Energy Savings Assistance Program. These contractors must present a valid photo ID badge. If you are contacted by a contractor and have concerns about their identity, call (800) 331-7593 to speak with a SoCalGas representative. The representative can answer general questions and verify the contractor’s identity and authorization.

Search engine scams can occur when customers use a search engine, like Google, to find a utility’s website or phone number. An unofficial SoCalGas website or partner may appear at the top of search results, misrepresenting itself. These fake websites may request a “payment” or provide a phone number for customers to pay by phone. The scammer collects the money, not SoCalGas. To protect yourself from search engine scams:

• Find the official ways to pay your bill on the Ways to Pay webpage or a printed bill.
• Save SoCalGas contact information in your cell phone or keep it near your phone.
• Remember, SoCalGas will never ask for credit card or banking information over the phone.

For more information on how to protect yourself from scammers, visit socalgas.com/ScamAlert.