BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — Scammers are targeting utility customers in the Bakersfield area – and they’re getting away with real money.
PG&E says nearly 24,000 customers across its service area reported scam attempts in 2025. Those customers lost more than $300,000 in fraudulent payments.
In the Bakersfield area, more than 540 customers were targeted, as well as 3 in Arvin and 3 in McFarland.
The most common scam is a phone call threatening to shut off power unless the customer pays immediately. But PG&E says scammers are now also showing up at front doors and asking to see utility bills.
If that happens, hang up, close the door, and call PG&E directly at 833-500-SCAM.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
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