business
PG&E warns of new scam involving bar codes or QR codes
By NBC Bay Area (KNTV, NBC)
· June 23, 2026
· 6 min read
Pacific Gas and Electric Company is warning customers of a new scam involving bar codes or QR codes.
The utility said the emerging con is a new wrinkle to a common scam where customers receive a call demanding immediate payment to avoid a stoppage in service.
“Scammers are constantly evolvi...
Key takeaway “Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to defraud customers, and the latest ‘barcode scam’ is a prime example of that,” said Matt Foley, PG&E’s lead scam investigator.
Why this matters in The San Francisco
The warning from Pacific Gas and Electric Company about a new scam involving bar codes or QR codes is a reminder that San Francisco residents must remain vigilant about their personal financial information. This scam is particularly concerning because it targets customers who may already be anxious about their utility bills, and the use of bar codes or QR codes may seem like a legitimate payment method. However, as PG&E's lead scam investigator Matt Foley emphasized, the utility company will never ask for financial information over the phone or request payment via bar code, QR code, or pre-paid debit cards. San Francisco customers who receive suspicious calls or messages should hang up and verify their billing details through official channels, such as the PG&E website or customer service number. By being aware of this scam and taking steps to protect themselves, San Francisco residents can help prevent financial losses and maintain the security of their personal information.
About this story
Original reporting by NBC Bay Area (KNTV, NBC) . The San Francisco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit NBC Bay Area (KNTV, NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: business ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: NBC Bay Area (KNTV, NBC) ·
Reading time: 6 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Pacific Gas and Electric Company is warning customers of a new scam involving bar codes or QR codes.
The utility said the emerging con is a new wrinkle to a common scam where customers receive a call demanding immediate payment to avoid a stoppage in service.
“Scammers are constantly evolvi...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 23, 2026 by NBC Bay Area (KNTV, NBC) and curated for The San Francisco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by NBC Bay Area (KNTV, NBC). To learn more about how The San Francisco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more business coverage from The San Francisco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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