Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is alerting customers to be aware of ongoing scam phone calls with criminals threatening to shut off power if a payment is not made.

Officials said that PG&E’s Corporate Security department has received several reports in the past few weeks regarding scammers requesting payment on past due utility bills immediately using a GreenDot card, Money Pack or gift card.

These most recent reports have come from across PG&E service area. The greater Sacramento area has experienced scam phone calls threatening suspension of electric service if a payment is not immediately received.

PG&E wants to remind customers that its representatives will always carry identification and will never ask for immediate payment with a prepaid cash card over the phone or in person.

The following tips are designed to help protect customers from all types of potential scams:

• Without prior notification of past due balances, PG&E’s Credit Department will not ask for personal information or a credit card number over the phone. Anyone who has received a phone call demanding payment and provided credit card or checking account information should report it immediately to the credit card company or bank and law enforcement.

• Customers with concerns about the legitimacy of a call about a past due bill, service request or request for personal information are encouraged to call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000. Be aware that scammers can disguise their true phone numbers or simply claim to be from PG&E.

• Customers should always ask to see identification before allowing anyone claiming to be a PG&E representative inside their home. PG&E employees always carry their identification and are willing to show it to you.

• If a person claiming to be a PG&E employee has identification and you still feel uncomfortable, call PG&E’s customer service line at 1-800-743-5000 to verify an appointment and/or PG&E’s presence in the community. If you feel threatened in any way, notify local law enforcement immediately.

• Customers who have an appointment with PG&E will receive an automated call back within 48 hours prior to a scheduled visit, or a personal call from a PG&E gas service representative prior to a scheduled visit.

• PG&E takes security seriously and will actively work with law enforcement to help stop any scam victimizing customers. Anyone who has received such a call can report it immediately by calling PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.