San Marcos Police Department Once Again Warning Of Scammers, Unlicensed Solicitors

The San Marcos Police Department has received several complaints about phone scammers and unlicensed door-to-door solicitors…

The San Marcos Police Department has received several complaints about phone scammers and unlicensed door-to-door solicitors and is asking the public to report suspicious activity.

Phone scammers

Residents have received calls recently from scammers telling them they are overdue on their utility bill and must pay immediately over the phone to avoid having their service disconnected.

The City of San Marcos will never call a customer seeking payment over the phone. Never give credit, debit, or gift card information over the phone to someone unfamiliar who asks you for this information.

If the City needs to do work that will impact you or your property, you will be notified with a door hanger with instructions and contact information.

Occasionally, the City will send recorded, mass notification automated calls or texts for emergencies and other notifications, such as large-scale power outages, boil water notices and flood recovery efforts.

These will give you instructions to follow, but will not ask you for any information.

Solicitors and people on your property

Residents have also recently reported solicitors posing as City employees asking to enter their home for water tests.

• City employees (other than first responders answering a call) will never ask to enter your home.

• City employees will always have a City-issued ID badge with them while on duty. If you have any questions about their activities, residents may always call the appropriate City department (Water/Waster Water, Electric Utility, etc.) for confirmation.

Legitimate door-to-door solicitors must apply for a permit from the San Marcos Police Department. If approved, they will be issued an ID card and must carry it with them when conducting their business.

People who suspect they are being targeted by a scammer should immediately call the San Marcos Police Department at 512.753.2108.