Water Scam Warning

Water Scam Warning

16:00 20 January in News

Scammer targeting water customers

Water customers across San Diego County occasionally report being solicited by scam artists demanding payment in cash or by credit card for water service or unnecessary water services.

Utility scams take many forms including demands that residents buy certain water treatment products and sales pitches for water line insurance. In some cases, imposters go door-to-door. Other times, they operate by phone. Impostors may even work in pairs, with one person talking to a resident while another cases the home for valuables.

Customers should refuse entry to anyone asking to enter their home. Otay Water District customers are encouraged to check the credentials of anyone who claims to be a water official and by verifying their identity and the purpose of the visit. Customers can always ask for identification and for a supervisor’s phone number and then calling the number provided. Any supposed water agency employee who refuses to wait while the agency is contacted should be considered a fraud and reported to police.

Otay staff will never demand payment in cash, require access to your home, and will always carry an identification badge and drive an Otay Water District logoed vehicle. If you ever have questions, please feel free to contact us directly at 619-670-2222.

Tips to Avoid Scams

  • Be careful of anyone who visits your house claiming you need or are required to buy water filters, cleaners, softeners or other products or equipment. Otay Water District does not sell or endorse these kinds of products or equipment.
  • Be wary of anyone who shows up at your house without warning to collect an overdue water bill. If your service is subject to termination, you will have received notices or other correspondence from the Otay Water District in the mail with instructions for payment.
  • Do not let someone into your home without verifying their references. Imposters may try to use the names of family members, roommates or landlords to say that person asked them to fix or look at something in the home.
  • Do not provide your credit card number to someone who calls threatening to shut off your water.
  • Never reveal your credit card, social security, ATM or personal identification numbers over the phone, the Internet or in person to anyone you do not know and trust.
  • Immediately report suspicious activity to your local police department or Sheriff’s office.