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Scam Alert: Fake utility reps threaten water shutoffs in Corona

Scam Alert: Fake Utility Reps Threaten Water Shutdown in Corona
Scam Alert: Fake Utility Reps Threaten Water Shutdown in Corona
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Corona, Calif. (KNX) – Officials from the Corona Department of Utilities issued a warning on Friday regarding scam artists posing as customer service representatives.

The scammers have been contacting residents, demanding immediate payments through the online app Zelle, and threatening to shut off their water within 20 minutes if they do not comply.


The city of Corona clarified its policy in a statement: "We reach out to customers via mail and door tags before shutting off a customer's water. We will never threaten a customer with a 20-minute deadline." The Department of Utilities also emphasized that it does not offer payment through the Zelle app.

The scammers have been using a 1-800 number to make their threats, claiming that utility personnel are standing by to enforce the shutdown order if the resident does not make the payment. The exact number of people targeted by the scammers remains unknown.

The city provided its registered number, 1-951-736-2400, which will appear on all calls placed by the Department of Utilities.

Residents who have been victimized by this scam are urged to contact the police department at 951-736-2330. Those with questions or concerns can also reach out to the Department of Utilities' customer care office at 951-736-2321.

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