VICTORVILLE, Calif. (VVNG.com) — The City of Victorville is alerting the public about a curb-painting scam targeting local neighborhoods, where individuals falsely claiming to work for the city are painting house numbers on curbs and demanding payment from unsuspecting residents.

According to a news release issued by the City of Victorville on Friday, May 2, 2025, the scammers are reportedly going door-to-door and asking homeowners for $20, instructing them to make checks out to “cash.” When residents refuse to pay, the scammers allegedly black out or deface the curbside house numbers.

City officials emphasized that Victorville does not paint house numbers on curbs and has no contracts with outside agencies to do so. Furthermore, the city does not authorize any outside agency to perform work at homes on its behalf, nor do city employees collect payments at residents’ doors.

The scam has reportedly been occurring in neighborhoods near Luna and Amethyst Roads. In response, Victorville Public Works crews will canvas the affected areas and remove any black paint or graffiti covering house numbers.

Residents who believe they’ve been targeted or who have had their curb numbers altered are encouraged to contact the City’s Graffiti Hotline by emailing graffiti@victorvilleca.gov or calling (760) 261-2222 to request cleanup.

The city is urging community members to remain vigilant and protect both their property and personal information.

In rare cases where a visit from a City of Victorville employee is necessary, such as for water audits or safety checks, officials will be wearing clearly marked uniforms and carrying proper city-issued identification.

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