The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) is warning customers to be aware of a recent telephone scam involving water bills. Over the past two days, the SFPUC has heard from several dozen customers who say they have received a call from someone impersonating a representative of “SF Utilities.” According to the reports, the alleged representative is threatening to shut off water service unless immediate cash payment is made. Customers have been directed to make payment at Walgreen’s, CVS and Rite Aid stores in San Francisco.

These calls are not coming from the SFPUC and at no time does the agency direct customers to pay their water bills in-person anywhere outside of authorized payment locations. 

Click here to view a list of SFPUC authorized payment options and locations

The SFPUC is conducting an internal investigation and, at this time, there is no evidence that there has been a breach of private customer information. Additionally, the SFPUC has reported the incidents to the San Francisco Police Department, the FBI and the Federal Trade Commission.

Customers who receive these calls and wish to report them directly to law enforcement should contact the Federal Trade Commission at 877-382-4357.

Customers who have questions about their water bill should call the SFPUC customer service line at 415-551-3000.