Elder fraud

On Nov. 2, a couple and child approached the home of an 84-year-old Los Altos man, pretending to be acquainted with the victim’s deceased spouse. The man asked if the child could use the restroom. The woman kept the homeowner occupied. A short time later, the three exited the home. The victim later discovered cash missing from his residence.

This is the second report Los Altos police have received about this type of crime. Police Sgt. Paul Epley advises residents to stay vigilant and report any related suspicious activity.

“Now that we’ve had two different reports, it sounds like a scam is working its way through the area,” he said.

Residents are requested to call the Los Altos Police Department at 947-2770 with any information.

PG&E offers ways to expose impostors and protect homes

Recently, two suspects claiming to be Pacific Gas and Electric Company workers were allowed inside the home of a Chinatown resident who later discovered she was robbed.

PG&E offered customers some tips to keep in mind when they receive a visit from anyone claiming to be a PG&E representative:

Be leery of anyone requesting entrance to your home for a service call without a scheduled appointment.

Always ask to see company identification. PG&E employees carry photo identification cards and are happy to provide proof of employment. In addition, all utility employees in California are required by state law to carry identification and show it upon request.

Look at the identification carefully. PG&E identification cards include the name and photograph of the employee.

When in doubt, verify the employee’s identity by calling PG&E’s customer service line, (800) 743-5000.

For more information, visit www.pge.com.