The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) is warning customers about calls by scammers who threaten to shut off water service unless a cash payment is submitted.

SFPUC said that nearly 50 customers had reported the calls, which appear as though they were coming from SFPUC's customer number at 415-551-3000. Representatives of "SF Utilities" direct customers to pay at a Walgreens, CVS, or Rite Aid or have their water service discontinued. 

"The majority of the customers we heard from are businesses," said Tyler Gamble, spokesperson for the SFPUC, via email.

SFPUC said that it was not making the calls and that it would never ask customers to pay outside of authorized payment options and locations.

On its website, the agency said that during a legitimate call from SFPUC, the number does not register with that caller ID, and that customers should beware of anyone calling from that number. It also noted that it would not contact customers and demand same-day payment. 

"Our customer service agents are able to retrieve and verify your information on record to assure you that they are legitimate," SFPUC added. "This information may include the customer’s name, service address, phone number, and any billing or payment information."

The agency doesn't believe the fraudsters obtained "phone numbers or other customer information" and became aware of the scam on Tuesday afternoon before notifiing SFPD, the FBI and the Federal Trade Commission. It is currently conducting an internal investigation.

If you have questions regarding your water bill, SFPUC recommends that customers call customer services at 415-551-3000, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm or email [email protected].