Notices showing up at residences around the region are giving the impression that Pacific Gas & Electric is advocating for a conversion to ‘Self-Generation’ for California homes.

“We have gotten word of the last couple of days of an attempt to scam PG&E customers,” explained Jeff Smith, PG&E’s Central Valley Media Relations Manager, with reports of the card being left on porches, primarily in the Oakdale area. “This is not from PG&E, and we are working with local authorities and (our) corporate security department to track down whoever may be responsible.”

Though the notices were reported mostly in Oakdale, Smith said residents in all surrounding areas, including Escalon and Riverbank, should be on the lookout as well.

“The main thing to do, honestly, is ignore it; don’t fall prey to it,” Smith advised, adding that those reporting the notices on porches were concerned “because it looked pretty official.”

He said scammers are getting more sophisticated in their schemes and if anyone is concerned about a possible utility scam, they can contact PG&E directly.

“We have a scams department,” Smith said, noting that the number to call is 1-800-PGE(743)-5000.

“If something doesn’t look right, call,” he said. “We just want to try and alert the community.”

Smith also said many scammers target the elderly and often make phone calls warning that a person’s power will be turned off if they don’t immediately make payment.

The utility, Smith said, “would never” seek payment through Zelle or Venmo; which scammers often request, and also has a lengthy process that occurs prior to any power shut off.

“Before we would take that last step, there have literally been six or seven notices put in the mail,” Smith explained.