Officials Warn Of Utility Phone Scams In Glendale

GLENDALE (CBSLA.com) — Officials Friday warned the public to be wary of an increased number of utility phone scams in Glendale.

A statement issued by the city of Glendale says many Glendale Water & Power clients have been contacted by people claiming to be customer service representatives.

The statement says the callers utilize sophisticated spoofing software that shows either "GWP" or an "818" number on the phone display.

The callers then reportedly ask the customer to pay their bill over the phone, directing them to buy a "Green Pack Money Card" or face immediate water or power shut-off.

"Customers … are given another local phone number and a specific time to call back and provide the money card information," according to the statement.

Those who have been called were asked to report the calls to the Glendale Police Department at (818) 548-4911. Customers were also urged to verify their account balance by calling GWP at (818) 548 3300.