Police, Southern California Edison Warn Customers To Be Aware Of New Telephone Scam

SANTA ANA (CBSLA.com) — The Santa Ana Police Department and Southern California Edison warned customers Wednesday of a new telephone scam.

Scammers have been contacting SCE customers demanding they pay for alleged past-due electricity bills immediately over the phone or they will have their electric service disconnected, according to authorities.

Officials advise customers to ask for the caller's name, department and business phone number.

"SCE utility workers will provide verification, including their department phone number, when asked," Santa Ana police said in a statement.

If the caller refuses to provide identification, customers should end the conversation and report the incident to local police or SCE 800-655-4555.