LAPD Warns Public About New LADWP Phone Scam

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com)  —   The Los Angeles Police Department is warning the public about a new scam targeting LADWP customers.

Officials say the scam artist calls and says the customer needs to send an immediate payment or face an immediate service shut off.

The LAPD offered the following reminders to consumers:

• LADWP employees will never ask for personal payment information over the telephone. They will never ask you to purchase pre-paid cash cards from a convenience store to pay your utility bill.

• Payment by telephone can only happen through the Department's voice automated payment system, not with live employees. LADWP personnel do not accept payment information verbally over the telephone.

• If you receive a call asking for a cash card, credit card, person-to-person cash payment, or a request for any other personal information, hang up immediately and call the Los Angeles Police Department.

• LADWP customers who want to inquire about their accounts should call 1-800-DIAL-DWP and speak to a customer service representative, or check online at ladwp.com with no waiting time.