Did you get a QR code demanding payment to PG&E? It’s a scam
Hundreds of PG&E customers on the Central Coast have reported being targeted by a scam involving QR codes — a new variation on a common phone scam.
Scams targeting PG&E customers typically involve people calling customers and demanding immediate payment to avoid disconnection.
In the newly reported scam, after receiving this phone call, customers receive either a barcode or QR code via text or email. The customer is then instructed to take the code to a store or business to make a payment.
“Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to defraud customers, and the latest ‘barcode scam’ is a prime example of that,” PG&E lead scam investigator Matt Foley said in a news release. “Remember, PG&E will never ask you for financial information over the phone or for payment via bar code, QR code or pre-paid debit cards or money transfer services like Zelle, and we won’t ask to see your bill at your door.”
The release also warned customers that scammers are now able to create 800 numbers that appear authentic on a phone display but do not connect to PG&E if called back. If you suspect a call is a scam, hang up and call PG&E at 1-833-500-SCAM, the release said.
The highest concentration of reported scams are in Monterey and Santa Cruz counties. Three incidents have been reported in San Luis Obispo County.
PG&E said scams have cost its customers $211,000 so far this year, on track to outpace 2025 when $301,000 in losses were reported. Customers have averaged $969 in losses this year.
Customers who suspect that they have been victims of a scam should contact local law enforcement, according to the release. Customers can also find information about avoiding scams on the Federal Trade Commission’s website.
This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 1:07 PM.
