Customers and real estate professionals across the region are encouraged to remain vigilant as utility impersonation scams continue to evolve—most recently targeting homeowners and realtors preparing for open houses.

In a recent incident, a real estate professional received a text message falsely claiming to be from SDG&E®, warning that power to a listed property was scheduled for disconnection. The message included the actual property address and urged immediate action. Concerned about losing electricity during an open house, the homeowner contacted the number provided and made a payment—only to later learn the communication was fraudulent.

Similar scams have been reported across San Diego County. Fraudsters often impersonate utility representatives by phone, text, or email, using urgency to pressure victims into making quick decisions. Some messages reference “work orders,” “past‑due balances,” or account issues, while directing customers to fake phone numbers or non‑SDG&E websites.

Scammers may use publicly available information, including real addresses or reference numbers, to make messages appear legitimate—particularly during time‑sensitive situations such as real estate transactions or business operations.  

What customers should know

• SDG&E will never call or text to demand immediate payment.
• SDG&E does not accept payments via Bitcoin, Zelle, or Green Dot.
• In-person payments with cash or PIN-Based Debit Card can be made only at an Authorized Payment Location.
• When in doubt, hang up and call SDG&E directly at 1-800-411-7343 (or 1-800-311-7343 for Spanish).  

Customers who receive suspicious communications should avoid responding, clicking links, or calling numbers included in the message. Instead, they should verify their account status directly through SDG&E’s official website or by using the phone number listed on their bill.

More information on common utility scams and consumer protections is available at sdge.com/scams.