Hello all,
(I apologize if this is incorrectly categorized)
TL:DR
A random number calls with an automated message from PG&E (California Electrical provider) stated that unless the balance is paid, services will be disconnected in 30 minutes. They provide the following call-back number. I called them back and selected "account balance". A person answered. It was a scam.
800-374-1169
Longer story:
First clue: PG&E doesn't operate like this (I am one of their customers). Also, none of this is happening because COVID related regulation prohibits utilities from disconnecting services so suddenly for non-payment.
Upon calling them back:
The automated greeting has a noticeable cut when you would expect the company name to be provided.
After selecting option #2 ("Account balance") a human answered with a noticeable accent. He identified himself as "Victor Sanchez".
Me: "I received a call about a balance due"
Them: "Was this about a business or residential account"
Me: "I have both, which one is due?"
Them: "What is your phone number?"
Me: [provide a made up phone number]
Them: "We don't seem to have that number"
Me: "Hmm can you look it up by the address?" <-- Legitimate PG&E reps ALWAYS need the address first
Them: "No. Do you have another phone"
Me: "No, I don't think so. Is there another way to get this taken care of?"
Them: "Well, the technician is going to be there in 30 minutes with the legal documents."
Me: "A PG&E 'Technician' is delivering 'legal documents'??"
Them: "Yes"
Me: "But what about the COVID stuff, will he have a facemask before he comes here?"
Them: *Click*
Spam.