Otay Urges Customers to Stay Alert Against Scams
Various reports of utility-related scams have been made to the Otay Water District. In some cases, scammers have been targeting customers using a tactic called caller-ID spoofing. This practice occurs when scammers mask their phone number with one you may be familiar with and trust. Customers may be deceived into believing their water bill is overdue and if not paid immediately, their water service will be disconnected.
Customers are advised to be cautious of anyone masking their phone number with a District number claiming to be an Otay representative, soliciting information, demanding credit card or other methods of payment. Before disconnecting your water service, the District will send you one or more notifications via phone, email, and/or mail. Also, there are multiple payment options available to prevent the stoppage of water service.
Other scam tactics may include sales pitches and even door-to-door visits. Some incidents have involved individuals making unsolicited home visits while appearing to pose as a District representative. They request to take water samples from inside the property or leave water testing kits with a “Community Water Test” form at the front door. Their intention may be to sell a water filtration system or other devices. The District reminds customers that it will never demand payment in cash or require access to your home unless necessary in an emergency. Staff will always carry an identification badge and drive a vehicle marked with an Otay logo. Also, water testing kits are not provided by the District.
If ever in doubt, please contact us directly at (619) 670-2222 to verify any information.